Editor's choiceEditor's noteLocal newsNews
Accident statistics high as the big trek looms
JOBURG - The Road Traffic Management Corporation and Transport Minister Dipuo Peters released the national road accident and fatality statistics for the period 1-28 December.
![](https://images.caxton.co.za/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2015/01/varu46traffic2-Medium_9659978_4910141_6957999_7407811_2039572.jpg)
The statistics revealed that 1 143 people died in 924 crashes during the festive season. KwaZulu-Natal topped the list with 249 fatalities, followed by Gauteng with 174 and and the Eastern Cape with 161.
Peters said the main causes for accidents were unroadworthy vehicles, driver fatigue, drinking and driving, speeding and inconsiderate driving.
Many holiday makers still have to return home. Spokesperson for the Department of Transport Ishmael Mnisi said, “The big trek is beginning from 3 January. These are the first groups of people who will be coming back to Gauteng and built up areas where they work.”
He said there would be roadblocks all over the country on major routes. “The department and its agencies are combat ready, ” he said.