The 2013 figure of 241 increased from the 217 lives lost in 2012 and 151 in 2011. What the statistics also indicate is that 60 percent of those killed are pedestrians. According to then transport minster Ben Martins, most of the people who died last year during this period were pedestrians.
“Based on these and other statistics from previous years, both over December and April, we can certainly see a trend that pedestrians who consume too much alcohol are putting themselves and other road users at risk when they cross roads. It is happening in villages, townships and other residential areas rather than on the national highways. Pedestrians who walk home and are intoxicated should realise that they are putting themselves as well as other road users at risk. It is better to drink responsibly at all times, whether you are at home with your family, out at a restaurant or even at the local tavern or pub,” suggests the Industry Association for Responsible Alcohol Use (ARA) CEO, Dr Osborn Mahanjana.
While driving under the influence is not the sole cause of road accidents or fatalities it is certainly illegal and can have devastating consequences. About 864 motorists were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol last year and a significant number of fatalities were a result of pedestrians walking on the road under the influence of alcohol as well as failure to wear visible or reflective clothing at night.
Other factors such as reckless driving, not buckling up, speeding, lack of taxi/ public transport permits, false documentation and driving without licences can all be contributing factors to road accidents. In addition, this is a particularly busy time of the year as it coincides with school holidays making the roads more congested than usual.
“Both drivers and pedestrians should play their part by drinking responsibly and prevent future deaths or accidents during the upcoming holiday and long weekends,” advises Mahanjana. “Very importantly, alcohol affects a person’s judgement and slows down their reaction times. Driving while over the limit is illegal and should not even be considered and people who have over-indulged and then decide to walk home should also be wary.”
There are a few simple tips to consider if you choose to drink and are planning to do so over any holiday period.
- Before deciding to go out, where you know you will be drinking, ask yourself “how do I intend getting home?” Keep in mind that if you are staying in a different city while on holiday, check what metered taxi or shuttle services are available to you. Also plan your outings so that you are not far from your accommodation without safe transport home.
- Once you have a list of taxi drivers, keep the contact details on your cellphone and ensure that you have enough money set aside in your purse/wallet for this, should you not be in a position to drive or walk home.
- It is far cheaper and a lot more sensible to club together with your friends to hire a car or mini-bus with a driver so that you can responsibly enjoy a night of fun.
- Alternatively, you can ask a friend to be the designated driver for the night and agree upfront who that person is and that they will remain sober before going out.
- If you are planning to host the party at home, make sure that you consider beforehand how you will handle friends who have overindulged. Either arrange alternative transport for them to get home, or offer them a spot on the sofa until morning.
While not drinking and driving is an important part of responsible alcohol use, there are other ways to enjoy your drinks with friends and family over this social period.
- Drink plenty of water before, during and after drinking alcohol
- Always eat before drinking alcohol and try to eat while drinking – choose foods that are high in fat and carbohydrates, i.e. burger and chips.
- Don’t swim when you’ve had alcohol.
- Drinking on the beach is against the law and can be very dangerous, as can drinking at the river or the dam for those who live inland.
- Don’t supply drinks to underage persons – the South African legal drinking age is 18.
- Avoid drinking with partners who are prone to aggressive behaviour.
- Avoid lifts from strangers, especially when intoxicated.
Mahanjana emphasises that alcohol is a matter of individual judgement and accountability. It’s been a part of social life and celebrations around the world for thousands of years. Drinking sensibly means you can enjoy yourself – and stay safe.
