The Western Cape Government (WCG) has urged all motorists to prioritise road safety by adhering to speed limits, as many prepare to travel during the upcoming long weekend.
From 10 and 16 March 2025, Western Cape law enforcement officers issued 200 speeding fines across the province, with the highest recorded speed being 160 km/h in a 120 km/h zone.
“Excessive speeding continues to be one of the most significant contributors to road crashes, injuries and fatalities,” the WCG said in a statement.
At high speeds, the provincial government warned that drivers have less time to respond to sudden obstacles, traffic changes, or emergencies.
The WCG reminded motorists that excessive speed makes it more difficult to navigate turns, avoid obstacles, and keep a vehicle stable. Vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and cyclists, are often at the greatest risk when motorists speed excessively.
“Speeding not only increases the likelihood of incidents but also reduces reaction time, making it more difficult to avoid hazards. The faster a vehicle travels, the greater the force of impact in a collision, leading to often devastating consequences,” said Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku.
The MEC said serious injuries involving pedestrians and reckless or negligent driving continue to take a significant toll on the province.
“Every motorist has a responsibility to help keep our roads safe. We urge all drivers to remain mindful of their speed, drive responsibly, and make safety a priority – not just during the long weekend, but every time they get behind the wheel,” Sileku said.
The WCG has wished travellers a safe journey and appealed to motorists to be considerate and careful as they make their way to their destinations and back safely home.
To ensure a safe and incident-free long weekend, motorists are advised to:
• Stick to the prescribed speed limits at all times. Speeding is not worth the risk.
• Allow enough time to reach your destination, without the need to rush, or accept that you will arrive later than planned at your destination.
• Maintain a safe following distance between your vehicle and the one ahead.
• Stay focused on the road and avoid using mobile phones, or engaging in other distractions while driving.
• Ensure everyone is buckled up. This will significantly reduce the chances of serious injury.
• Fatigue impairs judgement and reaction time, stop and rest every two hours or 200km during long trips.
• Reduce speed when visibility is poor or in heavy traffic conditions. – SAnews.gov.za
