7 killed in horror crash on Mpumalanga’s M4 highway

7 killed in horror crash on Mpumalanga’s M4 highway! New Year’s Eve turned grim in South Africa as multiple road crashes claimed numerous lives, highlighting the ongoing road safety challenges the country faces. Among the most devastating incidents was a head-on collision on the N4 Toll Road in Mpumalanga, which left seven people dead, including a two-year-old child.

Horror Crash on the N4 Toll Road

The accident occurred on the N4 Toll Road between Belfast and Wonderfontein. Two sedans collided head-on, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals. Jackie Macie, the MEC for Community Safety, Security, and Liaison, confirmed that five of the deceased were from one vehicle, while two were in the other.

“The deceased include the drivers of both vehicles, and the youngest victim was a two-year-old child,” Macie said.

One occupant from one of the sedans survived the crash but sustained severe injuries and was rushed to the nearest hospital for treatment.

7 killed in horror crash

Investigation Underway

Authorities are investigating the cause of the collision. Macie emphasized the importance of adherence to road safety rules to prevent such tragedies.

“The N4 Toll Road is one of the priority routes. We will continue to put plans in place to reduce deadly crashes. However, despite these efforts, motorists must obey traffic rules and play their part in enhancing road safety,” Macie said.

He urged drivers to exercise caution and responsibility, particularly during peak travel periods like the festive season.

Nkandla Crash Claims Eight Lives

In KwaZulu-Natal, another heartbreaking incident occurred when a family of eight died in a crash near Nkandla. The family was traveling to a wedding in a taxi that veered off the roadway and rolled down an embankment.

The tragedy has left the community reeling. MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, is expected to visit the relatives of the deceased to offer condolences and support.

Support for Affected Families

The provincial Department of Transport has deployed teams to assist the affected families with funeral arrangements. The Road Accident Fund (RAF) has also stepped in to ensure that claims processes are expedited.

In addition, the Department of Social Development is providing psychological and emotional support to the grieving family members.

KwaZulu-Natal’s Grim Toll

The Nkandla crash was part of a series of fatal road incidents in KwaZulu-Natal. On Monday alone, close to 20 people lost their lives in crashes across the province.

Law enforcement and road safety officials have intensified efforts to curb reckless driving and ensure safer roads.

uMlazi Roadblock Targets Reckless Driving

In uMlazi, a massive multi-disciplinary roadblock formed part of a road safety campaign aimed at protecting New Year’s Eve revellers. More than 40 motorists were charged for various offences, and over 700 vehicles were searched during the operation.

The campaign, led by the Department of Transport, sought to clamp down on drunk driving, unroadworthy vehicles, and other violations.

Road Safety Concerns Persist

Despite these initiatives, the festive season continues to see a spike in road accidents, many of which are caused by speeding, drunk driving, and fatigue. Authorities have repeatedly called for greater caution and compliance with traffic laws to prevent such tragedies.

A Time for Reflection and Action

As the country reflects on these devastating events, the call for stricter enforcement of road safety measures grows louder. Jackie Macie and Siboniso Duma both emphasized the shared responsibility of government and motorists in reducing road fatalities.

“The loss of lives on our roads is a painful reminder of the importance of road safety. Let us all commit to safer driving practices in the coming year,” Macie concluded.

Conclusion

The New Year’s Eve crashes serve as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by reckless driving and non-compliance with road safety laws. While authorities continue to implement measures to improve road safety, the cooperation of all road users is essential to prevent further loss of life.

With the memories of those lost fresh in mind, South Africa faces the new year with a renewed commitment to safer roads and the hope of avoiding such tragedies in the future.

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