The Department of Transport (DoT) would investigate ways of ensuring a reliable statistical databank of road-related incidents, Transport Minister Dipuo Peters said on Tuesday, stating that various potential stakeholders within government, the private sector and civil society would be consulted to map out an inclusive approach through which all role-players could contribute.
“A reliable databank would not only assist us in ensuring that we have accurate figures regarding road-related incidents, [and] fatal crashes, in particular, but would guide how we respond to [the] challenges of road carnage besetting our country,” the Minister said.
She added that scientific analysis was needed to unearth the exact causes of the horrific crashes that have been witnessed on South African roads.
“Each and every road-related incident, particularly the major ones with fatal consequences, should be thoroughly analysed in order for us to come up with remedial actions that would prevent further recurrences,” Peters stated.
The Minister further explained that the planned approach would see the departments of Transport, Police, Justice and Constitutional Development, Health, Social Development and other relevant State entities working together to develop preventive and responsive measures.
“We also need to have our research bodies in government on board to explore innovative means of addressing the challenge of road carnage. Traffic authorities in all three spheres of government should work closely together to ensure [the] sharing of information and best practices,” Peters stated.
Currently, the DoT and other law enforcement authorities depended on the South African Police Service for information on road-related incidents.
The DoT last week reported that 1 357 people had died in accidents over the festive period between December 1 and January 7.