Pretoria - At least 18 people died in a fatal road crash involving a bus and vehicle in Free State on Monday evening bringing the death toll to more than 800 since the start of the festive season.
According to police, the crash occurred during a rain storm at about 5:30 pm yesterday on an incline on the R26 between Frankfort and Tweeling.
Transport Minister Sibusiso Ndebele has conveyed his sincere condolences to the families of all those killed in road crashes since the start of the festive season, and wished the injured a speedy recovery.
Ndebele said such crashes are usually not accidents as they are normally caused through blatant disregard for traffic laws, which include overloading, drunk driving, speeding and unsafe overtaking.
According to the Minister drivers arrested for any offence must have their driving licences seized as well as suspended and/or cancelled.
"In conjunction with the Ministries of Police and Justice, as well as the National Prosecuting Authority, we will continue to ensure that we are more aggressive in dealing with irresponsible drivers.
"As government, we are intensifying our efforts to improve road safety. However, each of us has an important role to play to stop this carnage which causes unnecessary loss of lives and injuries."
Ndebele appealed to motorists to test their alcohol limit before they embark on a trip, test their vehicles.
"Wear your seatbelt at all times, rest after every two hours and take every precaution to stay safe on the roads.
"Public transport operators have a duty to ensure the safety of their passengers and drivers. Report any traffic offence to 0861 400 800."
