Deadly week on Western Cape roads: 18 lives lost in 16 crashes

The Western Cape Government has expressed deep concern following a deadly week on the province’s roads, with 16 fatal crashes claiming the lives of 18 people between April 29 and May 4, 2025.

According to the Western Cape Mobility Department, the fatalities were largely the result of reckless driving, excessive speeding, and driving under the influence.

During the same period, Provincial Traffic Services recorded a staggering 267 speeding offences, including a motorist clocked at 167km/h in a 120km/h zone and another at 99km/h in a 60km/h zone.

“These shocking speeds endanger the lives of not only drivers but also those of passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists,” the department said.

“Speeding increases the likelihood of losing control of a vehicle, reduces the effectiveness of protective equipment, and increases stopping distances.”

In a massive enforcement drive, traffic officers conducted 238 integrated operations, including roadblocks, checkpoints, and speed control measures.

Over 36,000 vehicles were stopped and checked, and more than 8,000 fines were issued for various violations. A total of 139 people were arrested, including 96 for driving under the influence of alcohol.

Muneera Allie, Head of Communication at the Western Cape Mobility Department, called for a collective commitment to safer roads.

“In the past week, 16 crashes could have been avoided, and 18 lives could have been saved,” she said.

“These statistics should not just shock us, they should spur us into action. The truth is that too many of these incidents are due to human error and a disregard for rules that are intended to protect us all.”

The department also urged motorists to plan ahead, obey speed limits, remain alert, and adjust their driving to match road and weather conditions.

“The success of our road safety efforts depends on every single road user doing their part,” the department said.

“Let’s work together to make our roads safer, for our families, our friends, our communities. Every life matters.”

The Western Cape Mobility Department has updated the statistics, confirming that there were 16 fatal crashes resulting in 18 lives lost.

Cape Argus