Speeding and dangerous overtaking lead to multiple fatalities this festive season

The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) is strongly urging motorists to reduce speed and strictly obey road rules following a series of fatal head-on collisions during the current festive period.

DEADLY COLLISIONS ON THE RISE
Data reveals that head-on collisions currently account for 12% of all festive season crashes. These incidents are frequently the result of dangerous driving manoeuvres and high-speed violations.

The RTMC highlighted two devastating incidents from this past weekend:

KwaMbonambi, KwaZulu-Natal: On Friday, a light delivery vehicle attempted to overtake oncoming traffic, resulting in a crash that killed five people. Eight others sustained serious injuries, while six suffered minor injuries.

Heilbron, Free State: On Saturday, a head-on collision occurred on a blind rise, claiming five lives and leaving three people injured.

SPEEDING AND LAW ENFORCEMENT
Speeding remains the leading traffic violation in South Africa. Law enforcement agencies have been active in curbing this behaviour, resulting in:

Nearly 50,000 fines were issued for various offences.

255 drivers arrested for exceeding the speed limit by more than 40 km/h.

CRITICAL SAFETY ADVICE
The RTMC advises all motorists to exercise extreme caution and patience on the road. Specifically, drivers are warned not to overtake on blind rises, across solid lines, or in any situation where visibility is unclear.