Weather shifts gears: 39% increase in motor vehicle accidents
24 March 2025
The Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 57 motor vehicle and pedestrian accidents in 48 hours compared to 41 the previous weekend. Meanwhile, the City’s enforcement agencies made 322 arrests and issued 53 185 fines for various transgressions in the past week.
The Public Emergency Communication Centre recorded 1 629 incidents over the weekend, including 80 assault cases, 50 domestic violence incidents and 206 noise nuisances.
However, it was the increase in motor vehicle accidents compared to the previous weekend that caught the eye.
In one of the latest incidents on Sunday, 23 March, a taxi caused a collision involving four other motor vehicles at Jakes Gerwel Drive and Viking Way.
Nine passengers in the taxi and a child in one of the other vehicles all sustained minor injuries.
The taxi driver was arrested on charges of driving under the influence, as well as reckless and negligent driving.
‘The change in weather combined with poor driving habits and a lack of patience likely all contributed to the increase in motor vehicle accidents. Let’s not forget vehicle defects like balding tyres and brakes, and worn wipers – all things that can compromise safety on the roads. Please let this be a cautionary tale as we brace for winter and get your vehicles checked timeously to ensure they’re able to deal with the changing road conditions. Some motorists would also do well to check their attitudes and behaviour on the roads, or run the risk of ending up behind bars,’ said the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith.
In general enforcement in the past week, the Traffic Service made 24 arrests – 15 for driving under the influence of alcohol, four for reckless and negligent driving and five for other offences. Officers also recorded 41 986 offences, impounded 248 public transport vehicles and executed 884 warrants of arrest.
Their Law Enforcement counterparts arrested 184 suspects and issued 7 323 notices, while Metro Police officers made 114 arrests, including 30 for driving under the influence, and issued 3 876 fines for traffic and by-law transgressions.
Residents are reminded to report criminal activities by phoning the City’s Public Emergency Communication Centre on 021 480 7700 from a cellphone and 107 from a landline.
End
Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office
