Calls intensify for vigilance on the roads after several fatal crashes

Traffic authorities are intensifying calls for vigilance on the roads this Easter weekend, following a series of fatal crashes across the country.

Some of the most serious incidents have been reported in Limpopo, where traffic volumes are surging as pilgrims travel to gatherings of the Zion Christian Church.

Limpopo Transport MEC Violet Mathye said so far, many of the crashes are a result of human error.

One of the accidents, which occurred on Friday between Lebowakgomo and Polokwane involving two vehicles, forced the temporary closure of one lane.

The Limpopo Transport Department said at least five people have died in crashes on the N1 between Modimolle and Mokgopong this week.

In the Eastern Cape, a 13-year-old boy is the sole survivor of a fatal head-on collision.

The crash occurred in the early hours of Friday morning on the R67 between Seymour and Whittlesea, involving an SUV and a sedan.

Eastern Cape Transport Department spokesperson Unathi Binqose said the teenager, who managed to escape from a burning vehicle, was taken to hospital for treatment.

“This was a very, very devastating accident that has claimed three lives. A head-on collision had one vehicle catching fire and killing two of its three occupants, where the third vehicle died from the other vehicle.”

Authorities are urging motorists to obey traffic regulations and exercise extreme caution, especially when travelling at night and in the early hours of the morning.