Road safety officials are expected to intensify visibility campaigns and enforcement operations in an effort to curb the seasonal rise in fatalities. Winter conditions differ across provinces, with late sunrises and early sunsets pushing peak traffic into darkness.

Icy roads in the Free State, Eastern Cape, and mountainous passes created hidden dangers while dense fog in KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo, and the Western Cape reduced visibility.

These hazards increase braking distances and raise collision risks on both urban and rural routes, making winter one of the most dangerous driving seasons in the country. Pedestrians remained especially vulnerable, accounting for nearly half of all road fatalities nationwide, prompting renewed safety campaigns.

“Human behaviour remains the leading factor in road traffic incidents,” said road traffic management corporation spokesman Simon Zwane. “As visibility drops during these winter months, both motorists and pedestrians must drastically change their behaviour to adapt to the conditions.

“Our priority is ensuring that those traveling on foot are visible, and that drivers adjust their speed to match the diminished visibility. Late sunrises and early sunsets mean that peak commuting hours now take place in twilight or complete darkness.

Along high-risk corridors, officials were increasing visible policing and 24-hour operations in collaboration with provincial traffic authorities, he said. Strict enforcement would focus on speeding, vehicle roadworthiness, and driving or walking under the influence of alcohol.

Pedestrians were urged to adopt the be seen, be safe practice by wearing bright or reflective clothing and avoiding dark attire during early morning and evening hours.

Crossing highways or walking along major roads was strongly discouraged and often illegal. Alcohol-impaired walking remained a major contributor to fatalities, as it affects judgment and reaction time.

Authorities stressed only designated crossings, bridges, and intersections should be used to ensure safety.

Meanwhile, the department of cooperative governance and traditional affairs welcomed a further national disaster classification by the national disaster management centre following severe weather in the Free State, Northern Cape, Western Cape, and Eastern Cape.

The further classification confirmed that the four provinces experienced a separate weather pattern which caused extensive damage to property, infrastructure, the environment, and disrupted essential services, while also, unfortunately, resulting in the loss of lives.

The events included flooding, storms, wind damage, and snowfall, causing infrastructure damage and loss of life. The classification enabled coordinated government response, faster relief and recovery efforts, and strengthened contingency measures.

OFM News/Zenande Mpame sm

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