Bakwena lowers festive-season fatality rates

N1N4 toll route operator, Bakwena, has announced that it recorded just nine fatalities in December 2017, and three between January 1 and 15 on the N1N4 toll route. While 12 fatalities are still 12 too many, the figures are significantly lower than those of 2016; when there were 12 fatalities in December 2016 and 19 in January 2017.

Bakwena spokesperson, Liam Clarke, says the country’s safety drive over the festive season was characterised by an increased visibility of law enforcement, as well as roadblocks that checked for roadworthiness, overloading and alcohol abuse.

“According to the Road Traffic Management Corporation, more than 924 000 vehicles were stopped and checked throughout the country and more than 105 000 drivers were tested for alcohol. While the numbers of fatalities are down from last year, one life lost is still one too many,” says Clarke.

He highlights the importance of taking all variables into account when analysing road accident statistics. “In December, we experienced about a two-percent increase in the number of vehicles on Bakwena-managed routes.

“An increase in car registrations and a reduction in foreign travel last year indicate that there is an increase in domestic traffic during holiday peak periods. This means that, despite increased volumes and greater opportunity for incidents, the statistics can be viewed in an even more favourable light,” he explains.

“We are pleased that the ongoing efforts of the Department of Transport and various other stakeholders around the country, such as ourselves, have seen an overall decline in incidents.

“We urge motorists to adhere to road safety measures all the time. In fact, our wish for motorists in 2018 is that they always drive carefully and reach their destinations safely,” concludes Clarke.