39 people killed on South African roads every day in December

04 January 2012 - 12:46 By Sapa
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File photo of a crash scene.
File photo of a crash scene.
Image: KEVIN SUTHERLAND

Thirty-nine people were killed each day on South Africa's roads between December 1 and 31, the Road Traffic Management Corporation said on Wednesday.

Thirty-nine people were killed each day on South Africa's roads between December 1 and 31, the Road Traffic Management Corporation said on Wednesday.

A total of 1232 people were killed over that period, in 1027 crashes countrywide, spokesman Ashref Ismail said in a statement.

"Reports received from traffic monitors around the country suggest greater compliance from most motorists. Traffic authorities will deal harshly with those who are a source of danger to themselves and others."

Ismail said between December 26 and 31,a total of 179,131 vehicles were stopped and screened countrywide.

For the same period 373 people were arrested for various traffic offences, including 193 for drunken driving and 40 for speeding.

All major national and provincial routes were expected to carry heavier-than-usual traffic volumes over the coming weekend, ahead of schools re-opening.

"There will be compulsory public passenger transport stop-points at various locations to address fatigue and vehicle fitness."

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