Call to adhere to road rules as accidents claim 10 lives

Monday, August 18, 2025

The Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, has reminded motorists to be alert on the roads as two separate crashes claimed the lives of 10 people on Monday.

Four people were killed on the R547

between Kinross and Kriel when a sedan they were travelling in lost control and overturned on the side of the road. 

The four were all men, and they include the driver. Two passengers sustained serious injuries, and they were transported to the nearby hospital in Evander for further medical attention.

In another incident that took place on the N12 between Delmas and Emalahleni, seven people, all passengers, lost their lives abruptly when an articulated truck crashed into another truck. 

“The truck, which has seemingly been converted to transport passengers, was at the time of the crash picking up employees on the road to ferry them to work at the nearby farm. The seventh person succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment at the hospital,” the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison said.

Six passengers were seriously injured while eleven people escaped with slight injuries. 

The injured were rushed to the hospital closer to the scene for further treatment. The investigation into both crashes is already underway.

"Despite all efforts that government and its entities continue to put to reduce road crashes, the number of people losing their lives in these collisions is still rising.  It is essential that all road users play their part by being alert while driving. They must also comply with the rules. More than 80% of collisions on the road are caused by human behaviour and regrettably people's recklessness claim innocent people's lives," the MEC said.

He has extended his heartfelt condolences to the affected families and wished those who were injured a speedy recovery. 

Motorists have been advised to follow these safety tips:
•    Do not drive under the influence of alcohol.
•    Adhere to the speed limit.
•    Ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy.
•    Avoid using cell phones while driving.
•    Buckle up at all times.
•    For long journeys, take regular breaks.
•    Pedestrians must cross streets at marked intersections.
•    Pedestrians must wear bright clothing when walking in dark areas.
-SAnews.gov.za