
Preliminary statistics records 20 road accidents over the long weekend. Image: Arrive Alive.
(The Post News)– Residents from the Western Cape have been urged by the Western Cape Department of Mobility to remain cautious as 24 deaths have been recorded this past weekend in the province. Isaac Sileku, mobility MEC, is gravely concerned about the unsettling statistics that have been reported from December 13 to 17.
It has been revealed by preliminary statistics that there have been 22 crashes, which have resulted in 24 deaths and several injuries, and from this, seven pedestrians have died. Sileku says that while enforcement and road safety campaigns that were launched in late November have led to some improvement in compliance with traffic laws, the loss of lives still remains unacceptably high. He goes on to state that the Western Cape is the only province that has a 24/7 traffic officer in every area.
In the past weekend, rigorous operations have been conducted at high-traffic areas across the Western Cape. According to Sileku, road safety is still under threat as it faces challenges of impaired driving, unlicensed drivers, and pedestrian non-compliance even though there have been efforts implemented to reduce all these challenges. He continues to urge all road users to take more responsibility.
According to Sileku, drivers must follow speed restrictions, avoid driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and guarantee that they and their passengers wear seat-belts. He also urges pedestrians to use designated crossings and bridges; furthermore, he urges parents and guardians to ensure children are transported safely using restraints that are appropriate at all times.