CCN Reporter – George April
Cape Town:- Road safety is once again under the spotlight after the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre (PECC) recorded a significant spike in motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents over the weekend.
According to the PECC, 60 motor vehicle accidents and 21 pedestrian-related incidents were reported in just 48 hours — marking a 100% increase compared to the previous weekend, which saw 41 such incidents. In total, the centre handled 1 825 emergency cases, which included 648 medical incidents, 34 fires, 96 assaults, and 53 reports of domestic violence.
“These statistics are a grim reminder of the challenges we face with road safety,” said Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security. “With the wet weather affecting the city and road conditions, we expect these numbers to stay high. Our enforcement teams are working around the clock, but real change starts with road users taking greater responsibility.”
Smith emphasized the importance of road user accountability, especially after traffic officers recorded over 50 000 traffic violations in just one week, highlighting the urgent need for safer driving habits.
General Road Safety Tips:
Obey the speed limit and all traffic rules
Stay vigilant and avoid distractions like cellphone use
Maintain safe following distances and drive with your headlights on
Watch out for pedestrians and cyclists
Pedestrians should wear bright clothing and only walk where it’s legal
Cyclists should use legal paths and remain visible
Apart from the recorded violations, the City’s Traffic Service made 32 arrests — 28 for drunk driving, and four for other serious offences. Officers also executed 1 634 warrants of arrest and impounded 238 public transport vehicles.
Meanwhile, Law Enforcement officers made 105 arrests, while Metro Police arrested 75 suspects and issued 2 353 traffic and by-law notices. A range of illegal items were seized, including dagga, mandrax, cocaine, an illegal firearm, ammunition, and an imitation firearm.
As the number of incidents continues to rise, the City is urging all residents to prioritise road safety — for their own wellbeing and that of others.
✍️ For official updates and road safety news, visit: www.capetown.gov.za/Media-and-news
