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As South Africa observes Youth Month, the Road Accident Fund (RAF) is sounding the alarm on the devastating impact of road crashes on the country’s youth. According to recent data, road accidents are the leading cause of death among young people in South Africa, accounting for 40% of total road crash fatalities.
Between 2020 and 2022, a staggering 13,963 young people lost their lives on South African roads, with pedestrians and passengers making up the majority of these fatalities. The RAF is urging road users to exercise extra caution during this period, especially over the upcoming weekend when Youth Day falls.
RAF CEO Collins Letsoalo appealed to road users to prioritize safety, stating, “Plans for your life and the future should start with ensuring that you get to your destination safely. Let’s be intentional about saving lives.” The Fund emphasizes the importance of adhering to road rules, using restraints, and being mindful of seasonal changes that may affect road conditions.
As the country marks Youth Month, the RAF pleads with the nation to work together to make South African roads safer for all. By being vigilant and taking necessary precautions, we can reduce the number of devastating road crashes and preserve the country’s future.
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