Although MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison Vusi Shonge commended traffic officers for their sterling job during the Easter weekend, statistics for road accidents in the Gert Sibande (GS) region showed an increase.
In Gert Sibande, 5 059 vehicles were stopped, 1 045 summonses for various violations were issued, 47 motorists were arrested, 44 of them for drunken driving and three for speeding. Traffic officers discontinued 44 vehicles.
Gert Sibande District recorded 15 crashes for the same period last year and 22 this year. 21 slight injuries were reported last year to the 26 this year and 13 serious injuries last year to 18 this year.
Road fatalities, however, decreased this year as 13 were reported last year and this year only 10 were reported.
Road safety statistics showed a decrease in road crashes and fatalities between 24 and 28 March this year compared to last year’s Easter in the province.
This year the province recorded 84 crashes and 25 lives were lost including six pedestrians, while during last year’s Easter 97 crashes were recorded and 27 people died.
This year 151 people were injured compared to last year’s 199.
Shongwe said although there was a reduction in the number of crashes and fatalities, road deaths remain a concern.
During the Easter weekend, 23 045 vehicles were stopped in different parts of Mpumalanga and 3 865 fines for various violations were issued. More than 187 motorists were arrested, 183 of them for drunk driving and four for excessive speeding.
For free breaking and community news, visit our websites:
Ridge Times, Standerton Advertiser & Highvelder
Like our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter.
For news straight to your phone invite us:
BBM – 2667A726
WhatsApp – 0748877590
