The Western Cape Government has expressed deep concern over the alarming number of pedestrian fatalities and drunk driving arrests recorded during the past week. Between 30 June and 6 July, 23 people lost their lives in 23 crashes reported on Western Cape roads.
The devastating toll included 15 pedestrians, four drivers, three passengers, and one motorcyclist. These figures are proof that reckless behaviour on roads continues to have devastating consequences, particularly for the province’s most vulnerable road users.
“The loss of lives on our roads is avoidable and requires collective action. Too many innocent lives are impacted and altered by the poor judgment and decisions of road users,” said Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku.
Also particularly worrying was the arrest of 57 people on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol during a week marked by heavy rain across the province. Sileku emphasised that driving while under the influence, regardless of the amount consumed, will not be tolerated, urging drivers to prioritise safety at all times.
Winter conditions compound road safety risks
The winter season brings added challenges for all road users. Shorter days, poor visibility, wet roads, and adverse weather conditions increase the risk of incidents, especially for pedestrians. Driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of road crashes and fatalities.
The government is urging residents planning to drink to arrange for a sober driver, taxi, or e-hailing service beforehand. Citizens are also encouraged to prevent friends from driving under the influence and to report reckless drivers when it is safe to do so, becoming part of the solution to road safety.
Pedestrian safety measures emphasised
Pedestrians are being urged to take personal responsibility when venturing out. Authorities recommend wearing bright or reflective clothing, especially in poor light conditions, and crossing only at designated crossings or intersections where drivers expect to see pedestrians.
Road users on foot should avoid distractions such as cellphones and headphones when walking near or across roads, refrain from walking under the influence of alcohol, and stay alert by always assuming drivers cannot see them.
Intensive traffic enforcement operations
To improve safety and visibility on provincial roads, the Western Cape’s Provincial Traffic Services conducted 213 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed control operations across the province during the past week. Over 27 000 vehicles were stopped and checked, resulting in just over 4 000 fines issued for various traffic violations.
A total of 78 arrests were made during these operations. The breakdown included 57 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol, four for reckless and negligent driving, one speed-related arrest, three for vehicles carrying overloaded goods, 11 for possession of fraudulent documentation, and two for failure to furnish information.
The Western Cape Government continues to urge all road users to act responsibly, especially during adverse weather conditions.
“Pedestrians remain our most vulnerable road users, and the numbers recorded this weekend are harrowing. We all have a role to play in protecting lives on our roads, let’s drive, walk, and act with care,” said Sileku.
