Media release by Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Minister of Mobility
Provincial Traffic Inspectors play a crucial role in making the Western Cape safer with their 24/7 presence on our roads, 365 days a year.
In the week of 22 to 28 May 2023, 271 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints and speed control operations were implemented across the Western Cape, and 28 833 vehicles were stopped and checked.
A total of 7 570 fines were issued for various traffic violations ranging from driver to vehicle fitness. Twenty-nine vehicles were impounded and 117 discontinued for being unroadworthy.
A total of 166 cell phone notices and 905 moving violation notices were issued, ranging from overtaking across barrier lines; overtaking in the face of oncoming traffic; inconsiderate driving; stopping on a freeway; to contravening road sign markings and traffic signals.
“Taking your eyes off the road for any reason while you are driving is extremely dangerous. Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of crashes that can kill people or leave them seriously injured. Never look away to answer a call, check a message or adjust the music. Even talking, eating or drinking can take your attention away from driving safely. No text or call is worth risking your life or the life of others – it can wait,” said Western Cape Mobility Minister Ricardo Mackenzie.
A total of 339 speeding offences were recorded, with the following noteworthy highest speeds:
- 174km/h in a 120km/h zone
- 144km/h in a 100km/h zone
- 119km/h in a 90km/h zone
- 119km/h in an 80km/h zone
- 109km/h in a 70km/h zone
- 104km/h in a 60km/h zone
Arrests
A total of 38 arrests were made for the following offences:
- 25 x driving under the influence of alcohol.
- 2 x speeding.
- 2 x goods overloading.
- 7 x possession of fraudulent documentation.
- 1 x failing to furnish information.
- 1 x threatening or suggesting use of violence against a traffic officer.
Fatalities
A total of 14 crashes occurred in the reporting period, and 16 fatalities were recorded:
- 4 x driver.
- 1 x cyclist.
- 3 x passengers.
- 8 x pedestrians.
Minister Mackenzie emphasised: “Of the total fatalities recorded last week, 50% of these were pedestrians. Distracted pedestrians are a danger to themselves and to other people on the road. Only walk where it is safe to do so. Wear visible clothing, especially at night. Motorists can only avoid you if they can see you. When you cross a road, pay careful attention to the traffic. Take off your earphones or headphones so that you can hear oncoming traffic. If you have been drinking, avoid walking near a major road. Find a safer way to get home.”