With the festive season in full swing, authorities are urging South Africans to exercise caution on the roads as traffic volumes rise and the annual spike in fatalities looms.
Despite ongoing safety campaigns, year-end road death statistics remain consistently high, casting a somber cloud over what should be a period of rest and celebration.
Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) spokesperson Simon Zwane says pedestrians continue to make up a significant portion of the fatalities.
“We are seeing a high number of pedestrian deaths,” he said, noting a worrying increase in jaywalking along major highways.
Zwane said the RTMC has intensified patrols on roads known for frequent jaywalking incidents to remove pedestrians from danger.
He added that the corporation is also working closely with communities to strengthen road safety awareness.
Authorities are urging all road users motorists and pedestrians alike to remain vigilant and prioritise safety throughout the holiday period.