Road death statistics discrepancy

Forensic Pathology Data indicate Easter pedestrian death toll in Metro higher than preliminary reports

An unconfirmed report received from the Western Cape Department of Health’s Forensic Pathology Services indicates that a substantial number of pedestrians were fatally injured in the metropolitan area over the past Easter weekend. These deaths occurred mostly late at night or in the early hours of the morning. As reported by the Department, preliminary figures obtained from traffic centres, emergency services and the SAPS previously indicated a single fatal pedestrian road traffic injury in the Metro over the Easter weekend.

The Department of Transport and Public Works is working with the Department of Health and the City of Cape Town to confirm the various reports received.

“I have been hugely encouraged by the improvements that our officers have seen in driver behaviour across the province during this year’s Easter holiday migrations. However, this latest report is a sobering reminder of how much the behaviour of all road users need to change. It’s a tragedy that most of these young men knocked over and killed on city streets late at night or in the early hours are in the prime of their lives, but just made one poor decision while under the influence of alcohol” said Provincial Traffic Chief, Kenny Africa.