Keep your children safe, says MVAF
Children between the ages of 0 and 19 accounted for 37% (19) of the 339 pedestrian-related deaths from 1 January to 29 May 2024.In addition to these statistics, the age group 20 to 39 years accounts for 38% of pedestrian-related deaths.
This according to statistics that the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVAF) made public last week.
The head of corporate affairs, John Haufiku, said that children's road safety risks increase at night, before and after school, at weekends and during holidays when they are more likely to play outside.
Furthermore, children between 0 and 19 are more vulnerable, accounting for 44% (149) of pedestrian-related crashes, while those between 20 to 39 years make up 32% (110).
"Be extra vigilant and always make sure that children are properly secured in a car seat, pushchair or safety belt every time you drive," warned Haufiku.
He advised that road users proceed with caution, especially as most schools are expected to close on Friday for the winter break.
The MVAF calls on all motorists, community members, parents and guardians to ensure the safety of all children against traffic-related injuries and deaths during the holiday season.
Previous statistics
In May, the MVAF recorded 970 accidents, resulting in 147 deaths and 1,789 injuries in the five months since the start of the year.
Between 2019 and 2022, the fund commissioned research into the causes of road accidents and found that 72% of them can be attributed to human contributing factors, such as speed, reckless driving and driving under the influence.
Meanwhile, 25% are related to road and environmental causes, and only 3% are attributed to vehicle-related factors.
The MVAF continues to appeal to all motorists to drive safely and stick to a speed limit of 30 km/h in residential areas.