Easter road deaths hit 90

2007-04-08 13:16

Johannesburg - Ninety people were killed in accidents on South African roads during the Easter weekend, the transport department said on Sunday.

"17 of those were drivers, 38 were passengers and 35 were pedestrians," said spokesperson Ntau Letebele.

He said the deaths were recorded in 70 accidents during the period.

Letebele warned against the use of alcohol, saying it was the main cause of accidents.

"Our statistics attest to drunk drivers forgetting to dim their headlights for oncoming traffic, changing speed or lanes frequently without reason, ignoring stop signs and driving on the shoulder lane or towards the centre lane," he said.

Meanwhile, traffic flows were expected to increase on the N1 later on Sunday as worshippers from the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) in Polokwane, Limpopo would be heading home following their annual pilgrimage to Moria.

As soon as ZCC Bishop Barnabas Lekganyane delivered his speech, droves of worshippers will head for the N1, causing a major traffic backup, said Letebele.

He cautioned drivers to be vigilant and exercise caution at all times.

- SAPA