58% drop in road deaths
2008-12-15 21:49
Johannesburg - There was a 58% decrease in road fatalities compared to the same period last year, transport department said on Monday.
Spokesperson Collen Msibi said there had been 280 fatalities since the beginning of the holiday season compared to 660 for the same period last year.
Of the 280, 80 drivers died, 112 passengers and 88 pedestrians.
"The decline can be attributed to the visibility of traffic police and high law enforcement activities as part of the Road Traffic Management Corporation's Operation Safer Festive Season," Msibi said.
Msibi urged all road users "to practice the tried and tested tips of arriving alive" such as buckling up.
Msibi urged motorists to slow down as driving too fast was a factor in 75% of fatal crashes. A decrease of 10% in speed reduced fatal crashes by 40%.
"Rest every two hours or every 200 kilometres and service and maintain your vehicle properly."
Cross where it was safe to do so and wear bright clothes at night, Msibi urged pedestrians.
He urged all road users to sober up because drunkenness led to fatal accidents for pedestrians and motorists.
- SAPA