To combat the ongoing issue of speeding, the Western Cape Mobility Department is ramping up its traffic law enforcement efforts.
It says it will be doing so by deploying more patrols on high-risk routes, among other things. The increased presence of law enforcement is aimed at ensuring compliance with speed regulations, after 201 speeding offences were issued between five and 11 August. One person was arrested for this.
MEC Isaac Sileku is hopeful that these measures will also deter reckless driving, after five people were arrested in this regard last week as well.
Sileku says speeding, a leading cause of traffic accidents, continues to pose a significant threat to road safety in the region.
“Driving at excessive speeds significantly reduces a driver’s reaction time, increases the severity of collisions, and diminishes the effectiveness of safety features in vehicles. In the unfortunate event of an accident, the chances of severe injuries or fatalities rise dramatically with speed. Pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users are especially at risk when drivers exceed speed limits.”
He further noted that in the past week, the highest recorded speed violations include:
- 161km/h in a 120km/h zone
- 144km/h in a 100km/h zone
- 104km/h in a 90km/h zone
- 114km/h in an 80km/h zone
- 94km/h in a 70km/h zone
- 89km/h in a 60km/h zone
The department expressed its commitment to promoting safer driving habits, urging all road users to adhere to speed limits to protect both themselves and others on the road. It’s advice to avoid speeding, is that motorists: must plan ahead to avoid rushing, use cruise control where possible, and be mindful of speed zones.
“Enforcement alone is not enough. We need a collective effort from all road users to change their mindset and driving behaviour. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, and adhering to speed limits is a crucial aspect of this responsibility,” says Sileku.
Traffic law violations in Cape Town
Meanwhile, the City of Cape Town’s enforcement agencies made 399 arrests in the past week, issuing over 41,000 fines for various traffic and by-law violations. Notably, there was a significant increase in drunk driving arrests, with 60 individuals apprehended. The City attributed this surge to the long weekend, highlighting the ongoing challenge of tackling reckless driving.
Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, warned that the City is also increasing targeted operations to catch those who break the law.
“We are working smarter and integrating technology into our traffic operations, like the Eye in the Sky, to ensure our roads are safer for all users. The City has free programmes at clinics for those who want to kick the habit of alcohol abuse. Drunk driving destroys lives, apart from the astronomical economic losses in terms of injuries and fatalities. If you cannot make the responsible choice to drive sober, then choose to get help.”
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