Cape Town: The Western Cape Government (WCG) has expressed concern regarding the 106 fatal crashes and 122 fatalities that occurred on municipal and provincial roads during the festive period from 1 December 2024 to 3 January 2025. Although these figures are lower compared to the same period last year, the WCG has emphasised the urgent need for enhanced road safety measures.
According to South African Government News Agency, data show that most fatalities were among passengers, pedestrians, and drivers – in that order. Notably, 51 incidents involved pedestrians, with 21 categorised as hit-and-run cases. Meanwhile, the Western Cape Metro and the N1 route accounted for the highest number of incidents, with most occurring between the hours of 10 pm and 1 pm.
The Western Cape MEC for Mobility, Isaac Sileku, emphasised the devastating impact of irresponsible behaviour on the roads. He stated that no family should have to face the pain of losing a loved one due to a preventable road crash. This festive season, traffic visibility and enforcement measures were intensified to safeguard all road users. However, he noted, personal responsibility remains the cornerstone of road safety, urging everyone to follow traffic rules and exercise caution and courtesy.
The WCG’s provincial traffic services continue to prioritise road safety through active enforcement, fatigue management interventions, and the dissemination of regular safety tips to freight drivers. Despite these efforts, reckless driving, speeding, and negligence during this peak travel time continue to endanger lives. Sileku reminded road users that they hold the lives of loved ones and fellow road users in their hands and encouraged collective efforts to prevent tragic incidents and make road safety everyone’s responsibility.
The provincial government urged all road users to prioritise safety and make informed decisions that can save lives. It provided several tips for road users: Plan your journey and leave early to avoid rushing; ensure your vehicle is roadworthy by checking tyres, brakes, and lights before departing; avoid fatigue by taking regular breaks during long drives and never driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs; be aware of pedestrians, particularly near residential areas and along busy freeways; and exercise patience and courtesy, sharing the road responsibly, especially when carrying passengers or heavy loads.