1 502 people have died on the country’s roads in the past month and a half. The road fatalities are as a result of more than 1 234 crashes. The alarming statistics, which prove an increase compared to the previous year – were shared by Transport Minister Barbara Creecy.
“Tragically South Africa witnessed 1 502 deaths, resulting from 1 234 fatal crashes during this festive season.”
The number of road deaths points to a 5.3% increase in contrast to the previous festive period. Creecy said 41% of the deceased were pedestrians and that minibus taxis were linked to more than half of the road crashes.
“I want to convey our heartfelt condolences to every family who has lost a loved one during this season, and I also want to convey our well wishes to the many thousands of people who are still in hospital recovering from their injuries.”
Meanwhile, in the Western Cape 140 road users died in 124 road accidents. Nationally, 9 550 drivers were caught driving under the influence of alcohol and over 414 speedsters were apprehended.
“The highest speedster was arrested in Gauteng driving at 245km/h in a BMW Sedan on the N1 near Honeydew, on the 18th of December 2024. I call on the courts to treat these cases with the seriousness they deserve,” said Creecy.
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