Mobility MEC dismayed over reckless driving in the WC

The Western Cape’s Mobility MEC, Ricardo Mackenzie, lamented the number of motorists driving recklessly on the province’s roads.

Mackenzie said behaviour such as trucks operating on prohibited routes and creating dangerous obstructions when they get stuck, cyclists ignoring construction risks on closed roads, and public transport drivers putting their passengers’ lives at risk.

PICTURE: Pixabay

According to the latest results from WC Provincial Traffic Services, thirty-four people lost their lives on the Western Cape’s roads. Of these, 18 were pedestrians, 10 were drivers, 4 passengers, and two were motor-cyclists. Eighty people were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, including the driver of a minibus taxi carrying 12 people.

‘’One of these passengers did not survive the fatal crash the minibus was involved in, and further charges have been laid against the driver for reckless or negligent driving, among other charges. Those who take risks on our roads must know that there are consequences,’’ said Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Mobility MEC.

The week before (20 to 26 November 2023), eighty-four people were arrested, and of these fifty-three were for being three sheets to the wind.

Mackenzie recently launched the province’s Festive Season Road Safety Plan, where he announced that close to 600 Provincial Traffic Officers will be deployed this festive season.

He called on everyone to abide by the rules of the road.

‘’No matter how effective, dedicated, and well-equipped these teams are, we need all road users to do their part in preventing traffic crashes. Check your vehicle’s roadworthiness, buckle up, don’t drink and drive, don’t speed, and take rest breaks every 200km. These simple actions will keep everyone safe and alive this festive season,’’ said Ricardo Mackenzie, Western Cape Mobility MEC.

 

Done By: Mitchum George