Minister Carlisle releases latest Western Cape road fatality stats

20 Dec 2011

‘I am bitterly disappointed,' says Minister

Robin Carlisle, the Minister of Transport and Public Works in the Western Cape has released the latest fatality stats for the festive season, which began on 1 December 2011. 

‘By the end of the day yesterday, 18 December 2011 a total of 90 people had died on our roads,' said Minister Carlisle. 

‘Over the same period last year 95 people had died. This means there has been a slight decrease in fatalities. 

‘Close to half - 38 - of the 90 deaths have been pedestrians. Meanwhile, 33 passengers have lost their lives, 13 drivers, four motorcyclists and two cyclists,' Minister Carlisle said. 

‘Given the efforts that we have put in over the last two years and especially over the last two weeks, I am bitterly disappointed by the results. 

‘No matter how many often one follows the numbers of fatalities on our roads over holiday periods, you can never get used to, or accept the magnitude and senselessness of the violence that causes it. 

‘Included in the statistics are a 4-month old, a number of 1 and 4-year-olds, and other innocent children whose lives have been snuffed out almost before they could begin. 

‘I once again appeal to motorists to obey the rules of the road - don't drink and drive, don't speed, wear your seatbelt, leave your cell phone alone and watch out for pedestrians,' said Carlisle. 

"Please do not do anything to prevent you or anyone else from getting Safely Home.' 

Statement issued by Steven Otter, Western Cape Transport and Public Works, December 20 2011

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