In a week-long traffic enforcement operation in the Western Cape, provincial traffic services have reported a distressing total of 27 road fatalities.
Western Cape traffic: Here are the stats for week starting Monday, 29 May 2023
These figures shed light on the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to enhance road safety and underscore the need for continued vigilance and stricter adherence to traffic regulations.
The presence of Provincial Traffic Inspectors remained unwavering as they conducted a comprehensive series of 297 integrated roadblocks, vehicle checkpoints, and speed control operations across the Western Cape.
In their pursuit of safer roads, a staggering 25 755 vehicles were stopped and thoroughly inspected.
Regrettably, a total of 6 928 fines were issued for a range of traffic violations, spanning from driver-related offences to issues concerning vehicle fitness.
The severity of the situation prompted the impounding of 14 vehicles, while 114 others were deemed unroadworthy and consequently discontinued from use.
Furthermore, law enforcement officers took note of 199 instances of cell phone usage while driving, a dangerous behaviour that diverts attention from the road and significantly increases the risk of accidents.
Additionally, 853 moving violation notices were issued, targeting infringements such as overtaking across barrier lines, driving inconsiderately, stopping on freeways, and disregarding road sign markings and traffic signals.
Traffic blitz in numbers: Here’s last week’s road death toll
These alarming statistics serve as a wake-up call for all road users, emphasizing the critical importance of responsible driving and strict adherence to traffic regulations.
The Western Cape Provincial Traffic Services’ evidence-based approach to law enforcement, reliant on data analysis and continuous learning, aims to bolster their effectiveness in the ongoing mission to curtail the number of road fatalities within the province.
Here’s a look at last week’s Western Cape traffic blitz results:
A total of 223 speeding offences were recorded, with the following highest speeds:
- 160km/h in a 120km/h zone
- 167km/h in a 100km/h zone
- 114km/h in an 80km/h zone
- 114km/h in a 70km/h zone
- 104km/h in a 60km/h zone
Arrests
A total of 65 arrests were made for the following offences:
- 54 x driving under the influence of alcohol.
- 1 x speeding.
- 2 x reckless and negligent driving.
- 4 x possession of fraudulent documentation.
- 2 x failing to provide information.
- 1 x obstructing or hindering an authorised officer in the execution of his/ her duty.
- 1 x resisting arrest.
Fatalities
A total of 22 crashes occurred in the reporting period, and 27 fatalities were recorded:
- 2 x drivers.
- 1 x motorcycle pillion.
- 9 x passengers.
- 15 x pedestrians.