Two pedestrians die in two separate incidents
The figures of pedestrian deaths are alarming.
YESTERDAY, 6 August, a man (60) tragically died when he was hit by a car along the N3 east-bound between the M13 and Pavilion off-ramp at around 1.10pm.
According to Netcare 911 spokesman, Chris Botha, paramedics and the rescue unit arrived at the scene and found the man lying on the road.
In a separate incident, another pedestrian sustained fatal injuries after he was knocked down by a vehicle on the M19 west-bound just past Blair Atholl, heading towards Pinetown, on the same day.
“When ER24 paramedics arrived on scene they found the man, believed to be about 30 years of age, lying in the fast lane of the road,” said ER24 spokesperson, Chitra Bodasing.
The man was assessed and found to have sustained multiple injuries. Sadly there was nothing that could be done by paramedics for him. He was declared dead.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport website indicates that the law states that no pedestrians should be on freeways, but sometimes roads are built without taking into account the needs of local communities. They often have settlements on one side of the road, and schools, taverns, places of employment and shops on the other.
These two incidents are alarming, and pedestrians should know the rules and hazards of crossing busy roads and highways.
According to the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport website, about 40 per cent of people killed on South Africa’s roads are pedestrians. This makes up a total of 4 000 deaths annually, and several thousand serious injuries. This is the single largest group of road users who lose their lives, and thus are the most vulnerable.
A few things for pedestrians to consider when walking on busy roads and highways;
It is advisable to face oncoming traffic.
At night, wear reflective or at least light clothing.
Use pedestrian crossings.
If walking with more than one person, walk in single file.
It is illegal to walk on freeways.
