With the December holiday season less than eight weeks away, road safety is once again in the spotlight. Vehicle crashes are costing South Africa R142 billion, or 3.3% of GDP-an economic and social burden that continues to grow as traffic incidents rise.
Comparative data from the Road Traffic Management System shows that a total of 2,818 fatalities were recorded between January and March 2024, up from 2,498 during the same period in 2023. Additionally, 2,327 fatal crashes were recorded in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2,132 in the first quarter of 2023-an increase of 12.81% in fatalities and 9.15% in fatal crashes. Clearly, the situation is worsening, with Gauteng recording the highest fatalities, followed by KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.
Vishal Premlall, National Director of the Tyre, Equipment, Parts Association (TEPA), a proud association of the Retail Motor Industry Organisation (RMI), says the concern is that this number usually increases the closer we get to December.
South Africa urgently need to enhance its traffic law enforcement to curb these alarming trends and road users need to become more responsible in their vehicle maintenance as well as their mutual tolerance to other road users – this includes motorbikes.
“We’re seeing an increase in motorbikes, especially with the rise of online shopping and delivery services. Motorcyclists, just like all road users, deserve space and safety on our roads,” says Premlall. “While car accidents are more common simply due to the numbers, the growing presence of bikes require more vigilance from drivers and more attention to safety critical parts on their vehicles like brakes.
“Quality vehicle components, regular servicing, and attention to safety details like brake and tyre quality can mean the difference between life and death.”
With the holiday season approaching, increased law enforcement initiatives, including “Arrive Alive,” provide some peace of mind for travellers. “While added visibility helps, it’s year-round vigilance that will bring real change,” he says. “Driver behaviour cannot transform over a three-week period if the rest of the year lacks sufficient enforcement.”
For all road users, patience and respect are key, adds Premlall. “We all have the right to be on the road. If we respect each other and follow the rules, we make journeys safer for everyone. Speeding, drunk driving, and texting behind the wheel are too common because there simply isn’t enough policing. Don’t adopt a ‘herd mentality’-just because others are bending the rules doesn’t mean you should.”
To ensure safer travels this holiday, Premlall advises maintaining a safe, well-serviced vehicle. “A safe vehicle equals a safe journey so if you are concerned about any of the safety critical parts on your vehicle you can always visit your closest TEPA fitment centre where an expert can offer guidance.”
It is also important to stand up and report any reckless driving. The National Traffic Call Centre (NTCC) should be on speed dial on your phone 0861 400 800.
When reporting reckless driving, try to provide:
Province, city or town.
Street or junction, or highway name and nearest town or suburb.
Direction of travel.
Date, time, and vehicle details (make, model, colour, registration).
Details of the incident (e.g., speeding, overtaking on a solid line).
(source: Arrive Alive: www.arrivealive.mobi).
“As we head into the festive season, let’s remember that road safety is everyone’s responsibility,” concludes Premlall.
“Every choice we make behind the wheel has an impact, and our collective vigilance can save lives. Respecting each other’s right to be on the road, maintaining our vehicles, and staying patient will make this season safer for all. Let’s commit to making every journey one that brings us home safely.”
