A devastating car crash on the R61 near Wild Coast Sun has left three people dead, with one individual in critical condition and three others receiving medical treatment for their injuries. The tragic incident, which occurred on Saturday, is believed to have been caused by illegal drag racing.
Drag Racing Turns Deadly Near Wild Coast Sun
According to preliminary reports, the crash involved three vehicles. A Volkswagen and a Toyota Tazz were allegedly racing each other when they collided head-on with a Toyota Yaris. The impact resulted in fatalities and multiple injuries, prompting an immediate response from emergency services.
KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, expressed his deep concern over reckless driving, particularly during high-traffic periods such as the long weekend.
“I have mandated RTI to take a firm stance against reckless driving and speeding,” said Duma. “We send our deepest condolences to the families of the victims.”
Road Closure and Investigation
Authorities had to close the R61 for three hours to clear the wreckage and allow for an investigation into the circumstances of the crash. The tragedy has once again highlighted the dangers of illegal racing and irresponsible driving, which continue to claim lives on South African roads.
Other Road Incidents Over the Weekend
The long weekend saw increased traffic volumes, leading to multiple road accidents across KwaZulu-Natal. In a separate incident on Sunday, at least 22 Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) members sustained injuries when their bus overturned on the R34 near Vryheid. The members were travelling from Gauteng to attend the party’s 50th anniversary celebration in Ulundi.
Duma confirmed that preliminary reports suggested speeding was the cause of the accident.
“The latest report we received indicates that the bus driver was driving at excessive speed. We will have no mercy on him,” Duma stated firmly. “There is zero tolerance for reckless driving in KwaZulu-Natal.”
Increased Traffic Over the Long Weekend
The MEC noted that the high volume of traffic over the long weekend provided an indication of what to expect during the upcoming Easter holiday.
“On Thursday and Friday, we recorded more than 1,000 vehicles per hour, which gives us insight into the level of traffic we will see over the Easter period,” he said.
Authorities have assured that there will be heightened visibility of traffic officers throughout the Easter holidays. Law enforcement will also collaborate with religious and community organisations to ensure that vehicles used for transportation are roadworthy and meet safety standards.
The tragic events of the weekend serve as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless driving and the importance of adhering to road safety regulations.
Also read: Payday Weekend Car Crashes Surge in South Africa – Shocking Statistics Unveiled
