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The Road Accident Fund (RAF) is urging motorists to help reduce the number of devastating road crashes this youth month.
The appeal on Wednesday came ahead of Youth Day this weekend.
The RAF said an analysis of available data revealed that the average number of road fatalities when Youth Day falls on a weekend is 74.
Spokesperson, McIntosh Polela, said statistics also revealed that youth in South Africa mainly die from road crashes.
"From 2020 to 2022, the estimated number of young people who died on South African roads was 13 963 out of 34 946 fatalities.
"South Africa is largely made up of a youth population and staying safe on the road is one of the ways of preserving the country’s future."
The RAF said some deaths are avoidable by simply adhering to the rules of the road and the use of restraints such as seat belts and car seats.
Chief Executive Officer, Collins Letsoalo, appealed to motorists to play their part in ensuring that their journeys do not end in tragedy.
“The deaths of young people on the road makes about 40% of the total road crash deaths in South Africa. Plans for your life and the future should start with ensuring that you get to your destination safety.
"Let’s be intentional about saving lives," he said.
With June 16th falling over a weekend, the Road Accident Fund is pleading with the nation to find that one reason to cooperate and make South African roads safer.
The RAF Contact Centre number is 087 820 1 111, from Monday to Friday, 07h45 to 16h00. The RAF can also be reached through its offices countrywide, details of which are available on its website on www.raf.co.za.
