Media Release by Daylin Mitchell, Western Cape Minister of Transport and Public Works
With the slight increase in the number of fatalities happening on our roads on a weekly basis, I will personally join Provincial Traffic in the next coming weeks to intensify the focus on safety on our roads.
Western Cape Provincial Traffic Services recorded a total of 40 crashes and 46 fatalities in the week of 31 May to 06 June 2021. This is a slight increase from statistics recorded in the previous week.
A total of 12 charges were laid under the Disaster Management Act and fines to the total value of R31 900 were issued.
During the week under review, Provincial Traffic Services implemented a total of 160 integrated roadblock, vehicle check point and speed control operations across the province, and stopped and checked 19 158 vehicles.
A total of 297 speeding offences were recorded and 3 443 fines to the total of R2 965 300 were issued for various traffic violations ranging from driver to vehicle fitness.
Five vehicles were impounded and 59 were discontinued for unroadworthiness.
50 arrests were made for various offences ranging from driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, reckless and negligent driving among others under the National Road Traffic Act, Criminal Procedure Act, Disaster Management Act regulations and National Land Transport Act.
The increase in road fatalities is a serious concern for me and my Department. We will continue to ensure that our roads are safe for all road users and pedestrians.
Never drink and drive. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect your judgement as a driver, a motorcyclist, a cyclist or a pedestrian. Do not drive or cycle when you have been drinking.
Make other arrangements to get home. If you are stopped by a traffic law enforcement officer and the officer suspects that you are over the legal limit, you will be arrested. If you are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol, you will have a criminal record.
Driving tired is as dangerous as driving drunk. The urge to sleep can distract you from driving safely. If you are tired, pull over and rest. On a long journey, plan to take rest breaks in safe places every two hours or 200 km.
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Media enquiriesÂ
Ntomboxolo Makoba-Somdaka
Spokesperson for Minister Daylin Mitchell
Cell: 082 953 0026
Email: Ntomboxolo.Makoba-Somdaka@westerncape.gov.za