18th December 2009

The Inkatha Freedom Party today appealed to motorists to be more vigilant on South Africa's roads following reports that a total of 448 people have been killed in road accidents since the beginning of December 2009; almost double the number of people who died on our roads during the same period last year.

"The IFP is alarmed by this increase in the number of road deaths this festive season, therefore we are urgently appealing to all motorists to be vigilant, cautious, considerate and to rest at regular intervals when travelling long distances," said Mr Eric Lucas, the IFP's spokesperson on transport.

Lucas also called on the traffic authorities to step-up their law enforcement campaign, especially during the lead-up to Christmas and New Year.

"Road accidents lead to the unnecessary loss of lives and law enforcement officials must intensify their efforts to apprehend and charge motorists who drive recklessly, do not obey the law, break speed limits, drink and drive and drive unroadworthy vehicles," 

concluded Lucas.

The IFP would like to convey its condolences to the families of those who have been killed in road accidents since the beginning of December 2009.

Contact:
Eric Lucas MP,             082 557 2481 or
Liezl van der Merwe,      082 729 2510.