The latest incident is of a man in his 30s who was killed last month in Newlands after he was hit by two vehicles on Main Road. This has pushed ER24 to release a statement urging pedestrians to be cautious.
The ambulance service company has found that in the last three years, it attends to an average of 10 pedestrian-related incidents a day across the country. Last year ER24 attended to at least 3800 pedestrian-related incidents.
Forensic Pathology Services registrar Doctor Marilyn Hoggan said skull fractures, internal organ damage, spinal and brain injuries are evident when examining a pedestrian who died as a result of a transport-related incident.
“There are cases where the patient initially survives the incident, is treated medically and then dies at a later stage due to complications related to the initial incident,” he said. The Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) spokesperson Superintendent Wayne Minnaar said pedestrians should remain vigilant especially at night where they are more at risk.
“We have projects such as the Community Outreach Unit and the Child and Traffic project. They teach children how and where to cross the road, how traffic lights work and about footbridges. The projects teach adults about road safety and education. The responsibility should be on pedestrians and should always be vigilant. We also teach adults not to drink and walk out at night because they are less visible to motorists and their perception and judgement lowers after consuming alcohol,” said Minnaar.
ER24 provided some tips for pedestrians and motorists to avoid accidents.
Below are some tips for pedestrians:
•Make use of pavements where available rather than walking on the road. If there are no pavements, walk facing oncoming traffic and as far away from the road as possible.
•Refrain from consuming alcohol as it alters the mind and impairs judgement.
•Use demarcated crossing areas if there are any. However, do not assume that motorists will stop. Rather check if it is safe to cross before doing so. If forced to cross a road where there are no demarcated crossing areas make sure you cross when safe to do so.
•Do not stroll across the road assuming that a vehicle will not hit you. Also, do not take chances by running across trying to beat the oncoming vehicles.
•If walking on the side of the road, make sure you pay attention to what is happening around you. Walk briskly and pay attention.
•Pedestrians are not allowed on highways/freeways. Refrain from walking or running across these roads.
•Never assume a motorist can see you. Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase your visibility and make eye contact where possible.
•Avoid talking on cellular phones or listening to music. These are distractions.
•Traffic signals and road signs are there for a reason. Obey them.
•Parents should ensure children are supervised when crossing the road. Do not allow your children to play along the roadside.
Tips for motorists:
•Always be alert and avoid distractions while on the road. Pedestrians could be difficult to see especially at night and bad weather.
•Never assume a pedestrian will wait for you to pass.
•Obey the speed limit and slow down where pedestrians are visible.
•Look around for pedestrians especially when driving past informal settlements, schools and public transport pick up and drop off points.
•Refrain from consuming alcohol and driving.
•Be careful when turning at traffic lights and intersections as well as driving around stationary vehicles.
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