 
MEDIA STATEMENT
FIVE PEOPLE KILLED IN ROAD CRASHKwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Safety and Security Mr. Bheki Cele has warned motorists, especially taxi operators that tyres need more attention than they think. Cele was reacting to a road crash involving a mini-bus taxi which occurred at about 14h30 today on the R34 between Vryheid and Melmoth in northern KZN. According to police reports, it is alleged that the driver of the taxi apparently lost control of the vehicle after the left rear tyre burst. The vehicle then overturned and five people, including two adult males, two adult females and a one-year-old baby were killed instantly. Eleven other people, including the driver sustained serious to slight injuries and were admitted to the Vryheid Hospital. Traffic officials have impounded the taxi and it has been removed to the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) Vryheid where it will undergo a thorough roadworthiness test. Cele has also dispatched a team of accident investigation and reconstruction experts to the scene of the crash to gather evidence that will ensure that whoever is responsible for this crash will face the consequences for their actions. "Whoever is responsible for this crash where innocent people have been killed must face the consequences for their actions and I will personally ensure that this happens. We will work together with the SAPS and Justice Department to make certain that drivers and transport operators, who through sheer negligence cause the death of others receive the harshest punishment," said Cele. "The only part of a vehicle that is constantly in contact with the road is the tyre. Yet, motorists pay less attention to it than it deserves. Many wait for it to get absolutely bald before replacing it and many care little whether the tyre is properly inflated or the correct size and type. If you are uncaring about tyres, the advice from experts is that you change your attitude now. It could well save your life. After all, safe tyres make for a safer trip," Cele said. "Also, think twice before overloading your vehicle. It can cause a great deal of pain to your tyres and other parts of your vehicle. It can not only hurt your pocket, but also deprive people of their lives. And our road network also takes a hammering in the process. Each year overloading causes damage amounting to millions of rands," said Cele. Cele has also expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and wishes those injured a speedy recovery.
|
