Cape Town sees over 230 road accidents in 10 days due to wet weather
Cape Town Fire and Rescue crews respond to a wet-weather collision, highlighting the dangers of winter driving conditions.
Image: City of Cape Town
The City of Cape Town’s Fire and Rescue Service has responded to a staggering 236 accidents in just 10 days, underscoring the urgent need for road users to adjust their behaviour during winter downpours.
Between Friday, June 27 and Sunday, July 6, the service attended to 162 motor vehicle accidents and 74 incidents involving pedestrians.
According to the City, these figures are likely an undercount, as not all incidents are reported centrally.
"What's even more concerning is that these statistics are not exhaustive, as incidents are not all reported to a central point, and sometimes, where an incident has not resulted in injuries, the parties involved report it directly to the nearest police station," said Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
"We caution road users all of the time about adjusting their behaviour to account for the specific conditions. Motor vehicle accidents cause huge emotional and financial strain, even if just a fender bender. They also have the potential to cause significant traffic delays. Let this be a reminder to everyone to slow down in general, but especially in poor driving conditions," Smith added.
Beyond accident responses, the City’s enforcement agencies made at least 183 arrests and recorded 26,206 traffic and by-law offences during the same period.
Law Enforcement officers accounted for 91 arrests and issued 3,276 notices for various offences. They also recovered four firearms, one in Tafelsig on Thursday, another in Beacon Valley on Friday evening, and two more in Crossroads on Sunday.
Traffic officers recorded 21,188 offences, impounded 229 public transport vehicles, and executed 1,319 warrants of arrest. Twenty-two suspects were arrested, including 12 for driving under the influence of alcohol, one for reckless and negligent driving, and nine on various other charges.
Meanwhile, Metro Police officers arrested 70 suspects and issued 1,742 traffic and by-law notices. Officers also recovered various quantities of drugs, a stolen vehicle, and three imitation firearms.
The City has reiterated its call for all motorists and pedestrians to remain cautious and responsible, particularly during adverse weather conditions.
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