WeeklySA_AdminFatal: Alcohol and drug abuse identified as major causes of fatal crashes on the roads
By Monk Nkomo
It is that time of the year and various South African authorities have issued a strong warning against drug abuse and alcohol consumption during the festive season – two of the main causes of road fatalities and gender-based violence in this country.
Speaking during her recent campaign on road safety, Transport Minister, Barbara Creecy, warned of a crack down on, amongst others, drunken driving, reckless driving and speeding in an effort to save lives on South Africa’s roads.
Alcohol abuse has been identified as one of the major causes of fatalities on the roads. Social Development deputy minister, Ganief Henricks, announced early this year that South Africans spent a total R7,7 billion on alcohol between the week of December 25, 2024 to January 1, 2025. The scourge of substance and drug abuse, he added, was a challenge not only for this country but globally.
Despite annual warnings by authorities including the South African Medical Association (SAMA) as well as Arrive Alive Campaigns, most motorists continued to act without regard for the lives of others on the roads resulting in fatal crashes which could have been avoided.
South Africa witnessed a total 1502 deaths resulting from 1234 fatal crashes during the 2024\25 festive season, according to Creecy. The preliminary 2024\ 25 festive season statistics indicated that 87 percent of crashes happened because of human behaviour including speed, drunken driving, reckless overtaking , hit-and-runs, jay-walking, fatigue and loss of control over vehicles.
Creecy announced that they were going to intensify law enforcement operations again this year by increasing roadblocks, checking for vehicle roadworthiness and driver licenses. There is also going to be 24 -hour patrols particularly in high risk areas, a clampdown on drunken driving and speeding – two of the other main factors that contributed to fatal accidents on the road.
She added that research had revealed that weekends, late-night travel and fatigue periods were high risk. She urged drivers to rest when fatigued instead of risking their lives and those of other motorists on the road.
The following key warnings and concerns have been identified in South Africa :
• Road Traffic Accidents: Alcohol abuse is a major contributor to South Africa’s high rate of road fatalities. Authorities like SAMA and Arrive Alive emphasize the need for designated drivers and warn of strict law enforcement and potential jail time for drinking and driving.
• Violence and Crime: Excessive drinking is widely linked to an increase in violent behaviour, including gender-based violence and interpersonal conflicts.
• Public Safety: The government and police services intensify law enforcement operations during the festive season, including roadblocks and monitoring of licensed establishments, to ensure compliance with liquor laws and public safety.
• Health Risks: Authorities highlight the general adverse health consequences of excessive alcohol use, which can lead to various medical emergencies and long-term health issues.
The World Health Organization has also advised that there was no safe amount of alcohol consumption regarding certain health risks like cancer and advocated for strict policies to limit access and raise awareness of alcohol-related harms.
South African officials and health bodies urged citizens to celebrate the festive season responsibly by :
• Planning Ahead: Arrange for alternative transportation or a designated driver if you plan to drink alcohol.
• Be Aware of the Law: Be mindful that police enforce strict drink-driving laws and being caught over the limit can result in arrest and a criminal record.
• Prioritize Safety: Avoid walking on roads while intoxicated and be vigilant about personal safety to prevent injuries and crime.
The message from the authorities is very clear : The abuse of drugs and alcohol while driving over the annual festive season can have a terribly destructive effect on families and communities. Drive safely and arrive alive.
