Johannesburg, Dec 27 (I-Net Bridge) - Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele on Tuesday called for driving licences to be seized as well as suspended and/or cancelled in light of the deaths occurring on SA's roads, currently over 800.
In the latest incident at least 18 people were reported killed in a road crash involving a midi-bus and car in the northern Free State on Monday evening.
According to police, the crash occurred during a rain storm at about 1730 on an incline on the R26 between Frankfort and Tweeling. This brings the road death toll to more than 800 since the start of the festive season, as per preliminary figures from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC).
"We want to convey our sincere condolences to the families of all those killed in road crashes since the start of the festive season, and wish the injured a speedy recovery. Such crashes are usually not accidents. They are normally caused through blatant disregard for traffic laws, which include overloading, drunk driving, speeding and unsafe overtaking, amongst others. In conjunction with the Ministries of Police and Justice, as well as the National Prosecuting Authority, we will continue to ensure that we are more aggressive in dealing with irresponsible drivers. Drivers arrested for any offence must have their driving licences seized as well as suspended and/or cancelled.
"As government, we are intensifying our efforts to improve road safety. However, each of us has an important role to play to stop this carnage which causes unnecessary loss of lives and injuries. Before embarking on a trip, test yourself to know your alcohol limit and test your vehicle. Wear your seatbelt at all times, rest after every two hours and take every precaution to stay safe on the roads. Public transport operators have a duty to ensure the safety of their passengers and drivers. Report any traffic offence to 0861 400 800. Enlist as a Friend of the Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020, and pledge to obey all road rules," said the Minister.
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