The number of road deaths in the Western Cape fell to 111 in December 2019 compared to 167 deaths in the same month the previous year.
The Western Cape Government, which released the preliminary data, said key contributors to the improvement included more effective driver fatigue management control, operations to stop driving under the influence, control of reckless and negligent driving, and speed enforcement operations.
“While every death is one too many, this represents a significant year-on-year improvement during one of the busiest times of the year,” said Bonginkosi Madikizela, Western Cape Minister of Transport and Public Works.
“Provincial Traffic Services will continue with 24/7 operations on provincial roads all year to safeguard the lives of innocent road users, but we cannot do it alone. I want to thank every motorist who has helped keep our roads safer by diligent seatbelt use, keeping to the speed limit, and not driving under the influence.”
During December last year 550 alcohol blitz and random breath testing roadblocks took place. Provincial Traffic Services stopped 140,608 vehicles for various reasons, screened 48,288 drivers for alcohol, and arrested 358 motorists for driving under the influence of alcohol.
A total of 9,858 public transport vehicles were stopped to assess driver and vehicle fitness and 2,640 public transport operators received fines for various offences. In addition, 2,250 speeding offences were recorded on provincial roads, and 33,498 fines were issued for various traffic offences ranging from driver to vehicle fitness violations. A total of 150 vehicles were impounded and 713 were discontinued for being unroadworthy.
