RAF records 'alarming' spike in accidents involving youth

HUMAN error has been cited as a major factor contributing towards a spike in motor vehicle accidents involving young people, says the  Road Accident Fund (RAF). 

Over the last five years, the RAF recorded a 43.5% rise in personal claims from individuals aged 15 to 35 with 70,743 claims having been submitted by this age group while claims filed by those younger than 15 years old reported to have totalled an additional 15,227.

South Africa is reported to have one of the highest rates of fatal traffic accidents in the world, with road users being four times more likely to die in accidents compared to the global average. South Africa reportedly records no less than 24.5 fatal accidents per 100 000 people while the global average is just 6.3 per 100 000.

"In the past five years, a staggering 43.5% of personal claims submitted to the Road Accident Fund (RAF) were from individuals aged 15-35, totaling 70,743 claims. Claimants under 15 years old filed an additional 15,227 claims, further highlighting the vulnerability of young people on our roads. These alarming figures underscore the need for increased road safety awareness and action," its spokesperson, McIntosh Polela said.

Polela has revealed that from 2019 to 2023, there have been more than 24 000 young people killed in motor vehicle accidents with pedestrians accounting for 38% of the incidents.

"Road accidents are a leading cause of death for young people, contributing to approximately 41% of all road fatalities, averaging 4,620 deaths annually. Young people are often injured or killed when not behind the wheel, as pedestrians (38%) or passengers (35%). From 2019 to 2023, 24,098 young people were tragically killed on South African roads in the 15 - 34 age group.

“The high number of young people injured and killed on our roads is deeply troubling. Human error is a major factor, and South Africans, especially the youth, must reflect on their behaviour and make better choices.”

He said the Winter season presented heightened danger on the roads.

"Longer winter nights further increase the risk of accidents, emphasising the need for vigilance. Road users should always wear reflective clothing, avoid distractions (including headphones), buckle up, and never drink and drive or walk," he added.

Cape Times