As the festive season approaches, the Department of Transport (DoT) is ringing alarm bells about South Africa’s dangerous roads. Last year, road crashes cost the economy a jaw-dropping R205 billion, and 1,285 lives were tragically lost over the holiday period.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy didn’t mince words at the launch of the 2024 road safety campaign, calling the statistics “sobering.” Every statistic represents a life cut short or forever altered by an accident.
So, which roads are the most treacherous? The usual suspects are back on the list, including:
- Limpopo: R71 Mankweng, R37 Mecklenburg, N1 Naboomspruit
- Mpumalanga: R573 KwaMhlanga, N4 Vosman & Nelspruit
- Gauteng: R21 Kempton Park
- North West: N12 Potchefstroom & Klerksdorp
- KZN: N2 Pongola & Umkomaas
- Eastern Cape: R61 Mzamba, N2 Libode, Idutywa, Mt Ayliff
- Western Cape: N2 Khayelitsha
The good news? The authorities aren’t just idly wringing their hands. With monitoring in full force, law enforcement will be out 24/7, cracking down on speeding, bad roadworthiness, and, most importantly, drunk driving. So if you’re thinking of hitting the road after a few too many drinks, think again – jail time could be on the menu.
But it’s not just the drivers who need to be careful. Pedestrians, listen up! Stay sober, use proper crossings, wear bright clothing at night, and avoid wandering the roads like a zombie.
Research shows most accidents happen late at night or early morning, and over weekends. So, take breaks, don’t speed, and always ensure your car is roadworthy. Minister Creecy’s advice: Don’t be that driver who ruins the holiday season for everyone else. Buckle up, be smart, and let’s make this festive season about celebrating life – not losing it.
Remember: Simple precautions could save lives, and the road to safety starts with you!
Source Info: https://businesstech.co.za/news/motoring/804509/the-most-dangerous-roads-to-travel-in-south-africa-this-december/