Transport Minister, Ms. Sindisiwe Chikunga has once again reiterated an impassionate plea and call to all road users and motorists in particular to exercise extreme caution and vigilance while using the roads.
This follows the tragic loss of eight (8) lives as a result of a crash yesterday evening Saturday, 23 September on the N1 at Botlokwa in Limpopo.
Reports received so far indicate that the crash occurred between a BMW and a Toyota Quantum type vehicle further resulting in one (1) serious injury, seven (7) moderate and four (4) slight injuries. The injured are receiving attention at Botlokwa, Makado and Polokwane hospitals.
While the exact cause of the crash is under investigation, preliminary indications are that the driver of the BMW crossed over onto the oncoming traffic lane and collided head on with the Toyota Quantum.
Crash reconstruction and investigation teams together with law enforcement officers from the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) and the South African Police Service will conduct investigations and submit an investigation report accordingly.
“To the families, friends and loved ones of the deceased we say our thoughts and our prayers are with you during this difficult time of sorrow. You pain is our pain and your loss is our loos too. We wish you strength from the Almighty as we come to terms with this tragic occurrence. We also wish a speedy recovery and return to good health to all the individuals who sustained injuries in the crash”, said Minister Chikunga.
“Our clarion call for heightened caution and vigilance on the roads, for motorists in particular and all other users continues to ring even much louder. Road safety remains the responsibility of every individual road user. Heed the call and follow all the rules of the road without exception in order for us to save lives. Our roads are a public space, let us use and share this space responsibly with due consideration for all the other users.
With this period being a long weekend in the country and traffic volumes anticipated to increase as travellers make their journeys to and from various destinations, the Department wishes to remind all road users of the following important road safety tips:
- Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy!
- Adhere to the speed limit!
- Avoid driving under the influence of alcohol!
- Avoid using cell phones while driving!
- Buckle up at all times!
- Take regular breaks!
- Pedestrian must cross streets at marked intersections!
- Pedestrian must wear bright clothing when walking in dark areas!
Play your part and help us stop the carnage!
Enquiries:
Monageng Mokgojwa
Ministry of Transport Spokesperson
Cell: 083 872 7207
