Pedestrians have become the single largest group affected by road accidents in the Western Cape (WC) this past week. This is according to the Western Cape Mobility Department.

During the first week of December, the department reportedly recorded 28 fatalities on provincial roads, as a result of 21 fatal crashes. Of the 28 deaths recorded, 12 were pedestrians.

The other fatalities include 10 passengers, 3 drivers, 2 motorcyclists, and 1 cyclist.

Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku warned that these numbers are extremely troubling, especially considering that the peak travel period has not even begun.

“Every life lost is a tragedy, and every family affected enters the festive season carrying pain instead of joy. Pedestrian safety remains one of our greatest concerns, we urge every road user, whether behind the wheel or walking alongside our roads, to exercise heightened caution,” added Sileku

Between 1 and 7 December, Provincial Traffic Services also conducted over 200 integrated operations, including roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed control activities.

Silkeu says during these operations, over 33,000 vehicles were stopped and checked, and just over 10,000 fines were issued for a range of traffic violations relating to both driver and vehicle fitness.

In addition, 43 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol during this period.

“As holiday travel increases, the department warns that drunk driving, speeding, and pedestrian behaviour continue to be major contributors to serious and fatal crashes.”

Meanwhile, Chief Director of Traffic Management, Maxine Bezuidenhout, added that its teams are fully deployed across the province, but enforcement alone cannot prevent crashes.

“We need every motorist, pedestrian, cyclist, and passenger to take responsibility. Simple decisions, like crossing only at safe points, not drinking and driving, and sticking to the speed limit, can save lives,” added Bezuidenhout

As the province prepares for increased traffic volumes in the coming weeks, the Western Cape Mobility Department called on all road users to remain vigilant and responsible.