Crumbling local and provincial infrastructure are contributing to South Africa’s poor road safety levels and must be addressed urgently to improve the country’s “horrendous” road safety record.
This was the warning from the Automobile Association, which said on Wednesday that dangerous potholed streets, inoperative streetlights, blocked storm-water drains, pollution-filled rivers, streams that overflow and unkept sidewalks and traffic islands were among the long list of issues that required prioritisation by local and provincial authorities.
“All too often human behaviour is blamed for road crashes when, in fact, prevailing road conditions are the culprit.
“Research shows that there is an upward trajectory showing just how poor road environments contribute to fatal car crashes,” the AA said.
“When we hear of the high number of pedestrians who are killed annually in South Africa we must ask if sufficient provision is being made for this road user group on our roads. Are there adequate sidewalks for them to walk on, or are they forced on to the road surface with other vehicles?
“Are streetlights always working to make them visible when they walk early in the morning or at night?
“Are there sufficient crossings and bridges for pedestrians to cross busy roads and highways, or are they forced to take chances that may, ultimately, lead to severe injuries or even death?”
The AA added that fast-deteriorating infrastructure had added to road safety challenges.
“When it rains in certain areas, roads become gridlocked, as even small streams become impassable. Storm-water drains are clogged, resulting in torrents of water flowing down busy roads, making it impossible for vehicles to use them.
“New potholes are created, and existing potholes get even bigger and deeper. Actions by motorists who swerve to avoid hitting these potholes, which then result in crashes, are ascribed to human error, which it is not. It is road error caused by poor maintenance,” the AA said.
The Association said poorly maintained road markings and road signage were another problem.
“Road markings and signage are there for a reason and should be well maintained but this is also neglected, sadly in many high-traffic areas where it is especially needed. Road users are vulnerable in these situations because the markings and signs that control and direct traffic are ineffective”
The Association advised motorists to report incidents of maintenance failure to their local authorities. “We know all too well that such an approach often yields limited results, but we believe it’s still a necessary step in dealing with problems and getting things working right. It’s a critical first step, along with engaging with local councillors and community leaders.”
The Association said if targets to reduce road fatalities in South Africa were to be met, such as halving the number of road deaths in the country by 2030, urgent attention had to be paid to road and municipal infrastructure.
