Cape Town: The Western Cape Government (WCG) has issued a call to motorists urging them to prioritize road safety by adhering to speed limits as many prepare to travel during the upcoming long weekend. This appeal comes amid concerns over road safety following a significant number of speeding violations recorded recently.
According to South African Government News Agency, from March 10 to March 16, 2025, law enforcement officers in the Western Cape issued 200 speeding fines across the province. The highest recorded speed was 160 km/h in a 120 km/h zone. The WCG emphasized that excessive speeding is a major contributor to road crashes, injuries, and fatalities, urging motorists to understand the risks associated with high speeds.
The provincial government highlighted that at high speeds, drivers have less time to respond to sudden obstacles, traffic changes, or emergencies. Additionally, excessive speed complicates navigation through turns, avoiding obstacles, and maintaining vehicle stability. Vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, face increased risks when motorists exceed speed limits.
Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku noted that speeding not only heightens the likelihood of incidents but also diminishes reaction time, making it harder to avoid hazards. He explained that higher speeds result in greater impact forces during collisions, often leading to severe consequences. Sileku expressed concern over the continuous toll taken by serious injuries involving pedestrians and reckless or negligent driving in the province.
Sileku stressed the responsibility of every motorist to contribute to road safety, urging drivers to be mindful of their speed and prioritize safety not only during the long weekend but every time they drive. The WCG extended wishes for a safe journey to travelers and appealed to motorists to be considerate and cautious as they travel to their destinations and return home safely.
To ensure a safe and incident-free long weekend, the WCG advises motorists to adhere to prescribed speed limits, allow ample travel time, maintain safe following distances, stay focused on the road, ensure all passengers are buckled up, and take regular breaks to combat fatigue. Additionally, motorists are encouraged to reduce speed in poor visibility or heavy traffic conditions.