MBOMBELA – A preliminary report by the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison indicates that 141 people died and 1 308 were injured on the province’s roads during this festive season.
At least 661 crashes were recorded in the province since December 1, 2015 to January 3, 2016.
The provincial traffic authorities also arrested 515 drivers who were found to be driving under the influence of alcohol. At least 32 motorists were apprehended for excessive speeding and 21 for other violations. More than 830 vehicles with defects were served with notices to discontinue.
The department also carried out various law-enforcement operations that were conducted throughout the province in December. Community safety, security and liaison MEC Mr Vusi Shongwe applauded the traffic officers by saying the arrests would serve as a lesson to other motorists who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
According to Shongwe, drunk driving was among the factors that contributed to most fatal crashes. He reiterated his call to the justice department to impose harsher sentences in order to deter other drivers from committing the same offence.
“We cannot continue to endanger other people’s lives due to irresponsible and reckless usage of the road by some motorists. We must rid our roads of drivers who are not complying with the law and thereby placing other people’s lives at risk,” said Shongwe.
A total of 31 809 fines were issued to drivers for different violations which include driving over barrier lines, excessive speeding, overloading and using the cellphone while driving.
Meanwhile, the MEC was deeply concerned about the increase of road crashes and fatalities during the festive season, saying it was a clear indication that more still needed to be done to reduce fatalities.
Shongwe also applauded emergency personnel for the hard work they had put in while many people were on holiday with their families.
“If it wasn’t for their dedication, the situation would have been worse. We also thank motorists who behaved well while on the road. We are also calling on members of the public to report any bad driving to the authorities,” he added.
• Lowvelder reported on its website about an accident on December 23 in which which a man and baby lost their lives near Barberton.
The accident took place about 45 kilometres from the Barberton turn-off. According to Mr Clarence Hobbs of Barberton EMRS, the trailer was overloaded with groceries and other luggage when it hit a taxi, killing two passengers and injuring nine more.
“The trailer was overloaded and the driver lost control of the vehicle,” said Hobbs. The EMRS also called on road users to be cautious when on the road.
