Tragic road safety statistics emerge from Western Cape's festive season crackdown

The festive season has once again highlighted the stark reality of road safety in the Western Cape, with tragic statistics emerging from the recent enforcement efforts by Provincial Traffic Services between 29 December 2025 and 4 January 2026. In a concentrated effort to curb dangerous behaviour on the roads during this busy travel period, authorities made 88 arrests, predominantly for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Throughout the week-long campaign, over 350 speeding offences were recorded, with an alarming speed of 171 km/h captured in a 120 km/h zone. As part of a robust safety initiative, law enforcement authorities implemented 180 integrated roadblocks and vehicle checkpoints, managing to stop and inspect more than 36,000 vehicles. This swell of activity saw the issuance of over 9,000 fines for various traffic violations, including serious infractions linked to driver and vehicle fitness.

However, despite rigorous enforcement efforts, the holiday period was marred by sorrow, as the Western Cape Mobility Department reported 23 fatal incidents, resulting in 25 road user deaths. A profound concern among these figures is the devastating loss of life among vulnerable road users; 12 pedestrians and 6 motorcyclists were among the deceased, underscoring the precarious nature of being outside a vehicle.

In addressing these alarming figures, Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku emphasised the significance of behavioural change in achieving safer roads. “Every fatality on our roads is one too many,” he stated. “While our enforcement teams continue to work tirelessly across the province, road safety ultimately depends on the choices each road user makes. Speeding, drinking and driving, and disregarding the rules place lives at risk, not only your own, but those of innocent road users.”

Minister Sileku expressed hope that through ongoing public awareness and the cooperation of every road user, further tragedies could be avoided. “With patience, vigilance and mutual respect, we can still prevent further tragedies on Western Cape roads,” he affirmed.

Echoing these sentiments, Chief Director of Traffic Management Maxine Bezuidenhout highlighted the essential need for awareness and protection of those most vulnerable on the roads. “Pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists remain among the most vulnerable on our roads. We urge pedestrians to remain visible, cross at safe points, and stay alert at all times,” she advised. “Motorcyclists and pedal cyclists are encouraged to wear protective gear, remain visible, and ride defensively, especially in high-traffic conditions.”

As the holiday season continues, the Department of Mobility has reiterated its call for all road users to:

• Obey speed limits and traffic laws
• Never drive or walk under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Remain patient and courteous during peak travel times
• Be especially vigilant in areas with pedestrian activity
• Share the road responsibly with motorcyclists and cyclists

Authorities remain committed to maintaining a strong presence across the province and promoting proactive enforcement as well as public awareness efforts, ensuring every traveller can reach their destination safely.