The Western Cape Mobility Department is sounding the alarm following a worrying spike in road incidents during the first week of the festive season, from 1-7 December. A total of 21 fatal crashes were recorded on provincial roads, resulting in 28 tragic fatalities—a stark reminder of the dangers that lie ahead as holiday travel ramps up.

Among the fatalities, pedestrians represent a significant concern, with 12 of the deceased falling into this category, making up the largest group affected during the initial week of festivities. The grim tally also includes 10 passengers, three drivers, two motorcyclists, and one cyclist, underscoring the broad spectrum of road users affected by these incidents.

Western Cape Mobility MEC, Isaac Sileku’s warning comes as a serious accident involving a police vehicle happened on Eisleben and Morgenster Road on Tuesday morning. According to witnesses a police van carrying suspects sped over the road and knocked a pedestrian who is currently receiving treatment in an ambulance and knocked into another Toyota Auris injuring the driver. The suspects also fell out of the police vehicle.

Sileku expressed deep concern about the troubling numbers, highlighting the emotional burden these tragedies impose on families during a time typically associated with joy.

“These numbers are extremely troubling, especially considering that the peak travel period has not even begun. Every life lost is a tragedy, and every family affected enters the festive season carrying pain instead of joy,” he said.

Sileku continued to stress the importance of pedestrian safety, urging all road users, whether drivers or pedestrians, to exercise heightened caution. He also emphasised the need for mental and physical fitness among drivers embarking on long journeys, as this significantly contributes to accident prevention.

During the reported week, Provincial Traffic Services ramped up efforts to ensure road safety, conducting over 200 integrated operations, which included roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed control activities. More than 33,000 vehicles were inspected, leading to the issuance of just over 10,000 fines for various traffic violations.

The crackdown also yielded 43 arrests for driving under the influence of alcohol, a serious concern as alcohol consumption often spikes during the festive season. As travel volumes are set to increase, the department warns that driving under the influence, speeding, and pedestrian behaviour remain significant contributors to serious and fatal crashes.

Maxine Bezuidenhout, Chief Director of Traffic Management, further emphasised the need for collective responsibility among all road users. “Our teams are fully deployed across the province, but enforcement alone cannot prevent crashes. We need every motorist, pedestrian, cyclist, and passenger to take responsibility,” she stated, encouraging sensible decisions that could save lives. “The festive season should be a time of celebration, not mourning.”

Tips for Safer Travel This Festive Season

• Slow down and obey posted speed limits; speeds remain a leading cause of fatal crashes.
• Never drink and drive. Plan ahead by arranging for a designated driver, e-hailing service, or alternative transport if you consume alcohol.
• Be extra vigilant at night, especially for pedestrians, who are at highest risk during dark or low-visibility conditions.
• Cross roads only at designated safe points and wear visible or reflective clothing when walking near roadways.

The Western Cape Mobility Department urges all road users to remain vigilant and responsible as they prepare for increased traffic in the coming weeks. “Let us work together to bring these numbers down. Your loved ones are waiting for you. Let’s make sure every journey ends with a safe arrival,” Minister Sileku said.

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