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SA road deaths still too high

Cape Town - Transport minister Dipuo Peters says the 677 people who have lost their lives in 539 accidents since the start of the festive season is far too much.

Speaking at a media briefing held in Johannesburg, the minister said while there has been a 35 percent decrease in the numbers in comparison to the same time last year – fatalities last year were 764 fatal crashes resulting in 917 fatalities - it was still not acceptable. 

Peters has cautioned motorists to be more responsible on the roads, saying “most of the fatal accidents happen close to motorist’s destination”.

Also see - Travel Safely: 10 festive season road safety tips

In November the department of Transport launched the road traffic safety plan for the festive period of November 2014 to January 2015 saying it was the responsibility of the various departments concerned as well that of all road users to ensure road safety over the next few months. 


Peters said this was to be a ‘Festive Season with a different agenda’, calling the plan a declaration of war against road crashes and fatalities. 

“This is indeed a Festive Season with a difference where the road safety-leading agencies are better prepared than before. South Africa is celebrating twenty years of democracy, together we can save millions of lives as we thank the heroes and heroines who died for our freedom, and those who died on our roads,” said Peter

SA festive season road trip: Roadworks to be aware of


Peters said those who do not comply with Section 50 of the National Road Traffic Act, which includes inter alia the suspension of the operators, impoundment, retesting of the vehicles and the arrest of the drivers and operators – would be dealt with.

“The National Traffic Operation Centre situated at the RTMC offices will monitor the implementation of the national plan as submitted by the provinces, Metros and the different traffic authorities throughout the country."

 A similar zero-tolerance approach would be taken by anybody attempting to bribe officials.

“No stone will be left unturned when we deal harshly with corrupt officials.  This will include public members who will be enticing our officials to accept bribes. When we arrest both parties, they will feel the heat of our National Anti–Corruption Unit who will be deployed throughout the country.

The key focus areas of this launch will include the following:

·         Impaired Driving

Targeting alcohol abuse, drug abuse, distracted driving and fatigue management.

·         Dangerous Driving

 Targeting excessive speed, dangerous overtaking and all road violations.

·         Occupants Safety

Targeting front and rear seatbelts, child restraints and air bags.

·         Public Transport and Loads Management

Targeting passenger and Freight Transport overload and documentation.

·         Vulnerable road users

Targeting visibility, drinking and walking, jay walking distracted walking and crossing on freeways.

·         Vehicle fitness

Road-worthiness of vehicles and documentation specifically number plates.


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