A fatal crash on the N4 between Swartruggens and Rustenburg has once again put the spotlight on dangerous driving behaviour, after a truck allegedly made an illegal U-turn on a hill, leading to a deadly collision in the early hours of Thursday.
According to the North West Department of Community Safety and Transport Management, the incident involved a truck driven by a Botswana national and a VW Polo Vivo travelling in the opposite direction. It is alleged that the truck driver attempted a U-turn on a section of road marked with barrier lines, a clear violation of road regulations.
The Polo Vivo collided with the truck, resulting in the death of the light motor vehicle driver, who was declared dead at the scene.
North West MEC for Community Safety and Transport Management, Wessels Morweng, has strongly condemned the incident, describing it as a blatant disregard for road safety laws.
Morweng expressed concern that this marks the second fatal crash in the province within the same week, despite the recent launch of the Easter Road Safety Campaign.
“It is unfortunate that this incident is the second in the province this week to claim a life. We have always said that one life lost on our roads is one too many,” said Morweng.
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He extended condolences to the family of the deceased and urged all road users to take responsibility when behind the wheel.
“Our message has always been clear, let us share our roads responsibly. This means adhering to all rules of the road, avoiding distractions and prioritising safety over convenience,” he added.
A case of culpable homicide has been opened at Swartruggens Police Station, and investigations into the crash are ongoing.
The incident serves as yet another reminder that one wrong move on the road, especially with heavy vehicles, can have deadly consequences for innocent motorists.
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