Over the past four weeks 33 pedestrians have lost their lives in road-traffic incidents across the Western Cape and three in the Drakenstein area, making up a significant portion of the 60 fatalities recorded during this period. The Western Cape Government is deeply concerned about pedestrian safety, as they remain among the most vulnerable road users. These statistics paint a stark picture of the dangers on our roads and underscore the critical need for heightened pedestrian safety awareness.
“It is concerning that almost 55% of fatalities on our roads involve pedestrians, with several more hospitalised,” said Muneera Allie, Head of Communications, Western Cape Mobility Department. “These incidents not only cause immense grief and suffering, but also bring economic challenges to the affected families and loved ones. Our traffic law enforcement officers will continue to help prevent pedestrian incidents by enforcing traffic laws and responding to pedestrian incidents. Upholding traffic regulations, including speed limits, signals and road signs, can enhance overall road safety. We all have a part to play in keeping our roads safe and achieving the target of halving deaths and serious injuries on our roads.”
Factors such as alcohol consumption, jaywalking and speeding contribute significantly to the high incidence of fatalities. Compliance with traffic laws by both drivers and pedestrians is crucial for enhancing pedestrian safety.
While walking is an excellent way to exercise, travel, get to work or enjoy the outdoors, it is essential to avoid risky behaviours such as crossing streets outside of designated crossings, pedestrian bridges or dangerous highways. Such actions can lead to severe accidents, injuries and even fatalities.
Speeding can have a significant impact on pedestrian safety. Any speed above 30 km/h increases the risk of a pedestrian sustaining serious or fatal injuries if hit by a vehicle. The risk of a crash increases with the speed of the vehicle since it takes longer to stop. The driver also has less time to react to avoid a collision or could lose control of the vehicle completely. Drivers should be vigilant and slow down in areas of high pedestrian activity, particularly around schools and shopping centres.
Follow traffic signals – wait for the green pedestrian light before crossing and ensure vehicles have stopped.
Walk facing traffic – if there is no pavement or dedicated pedestrian area, always walk facing oncoming traffic.
“Our children, the elderly and pedestrians are among the most vulnerable on our roads.” said Allie. “I urge all road users to be extra-cautious, obey traffic laws and look out for one another.”
