Grade one learner among pedestrian deaths in Western Cape

Motorists are being urged to practice extra caution along pedestrian-heavy roads, following the recent death of a child in a vehicle incident.

The incident took place shortly after school hours last week. A grade one learner from Wespoort Primary School, in Mitchells Plain, is said to have been crossing the road outside the school, when knocked over by a private transport vehicle.

The Western Cape Education Department’s Bronagh Hammond says support services has been provided for the school.

“The WCED has deployed a psychologist to the school to assist with counselling. And we send our condolences to family, friends and the school community. This is indeed a tragic and sad incident.”

The child’s tragic death was one of 13 pedestrian-related deaths that occurred in the Western Cape between 22 and 28 January this year.

The provincial Mobility Department says these deaths account for more than 60% of the road-related deaths that occurred that week. The department’s spokesperson, Rebecca Campbell, took the opportunity to urge motorists to always be alert while driving, especially where there are pedestrians present.

“My plea to all drivers is to watch out for child pedestrians especially and slow down when you see them. As children are shorter than grown-ups, they are more likely to be hit in the head and chest, causing serious or fatal injuries.”

22/01/2024 – 28/01/2024: Weekly operations’ findings

Nineteen traffic crashes occurred during fourth week of January, with a total of 21 fatalities recorded. While pedestrian-related deaths accounted for most of them; the remaining fatalities were made up of four passengers, two drivers, one cyclist and one motorcyclists.

Campbell notes that drunk driving continues to be cause of concern for the provincial traffic authorities. 118 people were arrested under suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol, further noting that that accounted for 75% of the arrests carried out last week.

“The message is simple, do not drink and drive. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect your judgement and lead to fatal consequences.”