Cape Town - One person was killed and a number of others sustained serious to minor injuries in an accident involving three vehicles on the N1, between Touws River and De Doorns.
The incident happened at about 4.40am on Thursday when a Silver Toyota Corolla Quest allegedly overtook another vehicle and collided with a White Iveco minibus with a trailer, and a Toyota Hilux bakkie.
According to transport and public works spokesperson, Jandré Bakker, a man died in the crash and the injured received medical attention.
“Provincial traffic officers, police and EMS were all at the scene. A stop-and-go was implemented which caused delays, while the scene was being cleared. We urged motorists to be patient on the roads and only over-take when it’s lawful and absolutely safe to do so,” he said.
The department said ahead of the Christmas weekend there have already been 82 motorists arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, while 13 pedestrians were killed in crashes.
Provincial traffic services implemented 320 integrated roadblocks, 39 283 vehicles were stopped and checked in the week of December 12 to 18.
A total of 14 308 fines were issued for traffic violations ranging from driver to vehicle fitness.
Forty-two vehicles were impounded, 222 unroadworthy vehicles were discontinued and 186 speeding offences recorded.
Acting MEC of mobility, Ivan Meyer, said while he’s grateful to the traffic officers for arresting a number of drunk drivers, the number was very concerning.
“It is unacceptable that a small number of irresponsible drivers are compromising road safety for all road users. Consuming liquor, even in small amounts and then walking, cycling or driving is dangerous.
Crashes involving drivers and pedestrians under the influence are no accident.
“Pedestrians are almost always killed in collisions with vehicles travelling faster than 60km/hour. Slowing down will give you more time to avoid pedestrians in the road,” he said.
Meanwhile the Passenger Rail Agency of SA (Prasa) said it was pleased with the high volume of passengers moving through its intermodal stations and the high demand for its long-distance passenger rail services as holiday travel rebounds to pre-pandemic levels.
Prasa said it is geared up and ready for holiday travel.
Prasa’s acting head of security, Alexio Papadopulo, said: “Our security plans have been bolstered and more resources to accommodate the additional commuters and ensure their safety.
“Security announcements are made to alert commuters to be vigilant, and our visible patrols are more frequent throughout the day and night,” Papadopulo said.
Cape Times