City concerned about high number of pedestrian deaths

The City of Cape Town has expressed concern about the high number of pedestrians who are involved in accidents. According to the city, five pedestrians were killed in road accidents over the past week.

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During the period, officers also recorded the death of two motorcyclists who had been involved in collisions with motor vehicles – one past Camps Bay, and the other in Ottery.

The City says some of the pedestrians are hit by cars on highways where the chance of survival is very low.

Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, JP Smith, says motorists and pedestrians need to be more careful on the roads. He says people treat traffic fines as suggestions

‘’Road safety remains one of our biggest challenges, and the number of pedestrian fatalities is quite simply alarming. The City conducts enforcement operations along our highways as far as our resources allow. Fines are issued to pedestrians who enter roadways, and we act against speeding and motorists driving recklessly. I have also called for increased enforcement of intersections, to reduce the risks to pedestrians in communities. Far too many motorists treat traffic signs as suggestions, often with devastating consequences.’’

‘’Equally devastating is the number of pedestrian fatalities on our highways. Not only is there a very low chance of survival for the pedestrian, but there is also secondary trauma and risk of injury to the other road users involved. I want to appeal to pedestrians to walk only where it is safe, and legal to do so. To motorists, please be incredibly alert to your surroundings at all times, and obey not only the speed limit, but all rules of the road. The City will also renew its engagements with the Western Cape Government and Sanral to install durable fencing or walls along the major highways,’’ added Smith.

 

Done by: Esobusi Mkangelwa