The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) expresses its deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by two major road crashes that occurred in KwaZulu-Natal and Limpopo over the weekend (Friday afternoon and Saturday morning). These tragic incidents underscore the urgent need for heightened road safety awareness, particularly during peak travel periods such as this Durban July weekend where many South Africans are expected on the roads.
On Friday, 4 July 2025, at approximately 17:10 in the afternoon, a major fatal crash occurred on the N3, Pietermaritzburg-bound, near the Shongweni off-ramp in KwaZulu-Natal. A Volkswagen Polo and a minibus taxi were involved in a crash, resulting in the minibus taxi veering off the roadway and plunging approximately 60 meters down a steep embankment. Tragically, five fatalities were reported, four women and one male, two of the deceased were South African Police Service (SAPS) officers who were in full uniform. Eight other passengers sustained injuries, ranging from minor to critical.
In a separate incident on Saturday, 5 July 2025, at approximately 07:00 in the morning, a head-on collision occurred on the R36 near Tunnel Plaza in the Mopani District, Limpopo. A Toyota light delivery vehicle (LDV) collided with an oncoming Honda sedan. The Honda sedan lost control and overturned, resulting in the tragic loss of five lives, all occupants of the sedan. The driver of the Toyota LDV sustained injuries and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical care.
Human factors, including reckless driving, speeding, and failure to adhere to road rules, remain the leading causes, accounting for approximately 80% of crashes.
The RTMC, in collaboration with provincial transport departments, SAPS, and other law enforcement agencies urge all motorists to exercise extreme caution, particularly during high-traffic periods such as the Durban July weekend, which sees thousands of travelers on our roads. Motorists are reminded to:
- Adhere strictly to speed limits and road signs.
- Avoid reckless overtaking and maintain safe following distances.
- Refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Ensure all passengers are buckled up and vehicles are roadworthy.
- Avoid driving at night if possib;e
The RTMC remains committed to promoting road safety and ensuring accountability for reckless behavior on our roads. Investigations into both incidents are ongoing, and those found responsible will face the full might of the law. We extend our heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved families and wish a speedy recovery to the injured.
ENDS
ISSUED BY: THE ROAD TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT CORPORATION (RTMC)
