As the 2025 Easter weekend approaches, South Africans are confronted with a disturbing reality: the nation’s roads have become increasingly perilous, particularly in the wake of staggering statistics from 2024.
In that year alone, the country experienced a harrowing surge, with 335 lives claimed in 236 fatal crashes, signalling a 32.9% increase in fatalities and a 14% rise in fatal accidents compared to 2023.
In response to these alarming figures, CrisisOnCall, an emergency readiness organisation, is urging all road users to prioritise safety and be vigilant as they prepare for the lengthy holiday weekend.
“These are not just numbers – they represent real people, shattered families, and preventable tragedies,” said Ruan Vermaak, Communications Manager at CrisisOnCall.
“The urgency for better road awareness and preparedness is greater than ever," he added.
The latest data reveals an unsettling trend: while Saturdays were historically the deadliest days during the Easter period, every day from Friday to Sunday in 2024 saw over 20% of the total fatal crashes.
KwaZulu-Natal and Gauteng were, not surprisingly, the provinces with the highest percentages of fatal crashes, accounting for 22% and 20.8% respectively.
Disturbingly, the windows of danger are increasingly narrow, with the most hazardous time identified as being between 6pm and 8pm — accounting for 21.2% of all fatal incidents.
Equally concerning is the rise in fatalities attributed to human error.
Recklessness, fatigue, alcohol consumption, and distractions accounted for a staggering 94.6% of fatal crashes in 2024, up from 92.6% in the previous year.
The data reveals a stark truth about driving in South Africa, a reality cemented by a recent report from Zutobi that named the nation the most dangerous in the world for motorists. High traffic death rates, poor infrastructure, low seatbelt usage, and weak law enforcement contribute to an appalling fatality rate of 24.5 deaths per 100,000 people.
“We need to face facts – being a ‘good driver’ is no longer enough. Even the most cautious road user can’t account for others' actions. What you can control is how prepared you are if the worst happens.”
With escalating traffic volumes and associated risks during the Easter weekend, CrisisOnCall urges all road users to adopt a proactive approach to safety.
Driving advise
- Planning routes carefully and avoiding high-risk travel times, particularly between 6pm and 8pm
- Taking regular breaks to combat fatigue, especially on long journeys
- Avoiding distractions, such as mobile phones, while driving
- Adhering strictly to traffic laws, including obeying speed limits and respecting pedestrian rights
- Ensuring family members are equipped with access to emergency support
"As communities gear up for the festive period, concerted efforts at road safety and personal preparedness are not just recommended but essential. This Easter, make every effort towards crafting a safer journey—because every life matters," Vermaak said.
IOL