While South Africa has seen a welcome drop in Easter road accident claims since 2022, the South African Insurance Association (SAIA) says the numbers are still unacceptably high and holiday periods continue to pose a significant risk for motorists.

According to SAIA’s insurance claims database, the number of vehicle accident claims submitted during the Easter period surged to 89,655 in 2022 — a 42% jump from 2021 — following the easing of Covid-19 lockdown restrictions. However, subsequent years showed improvement, with claims decreasing by 18% in 2023 and a further 4% in 2024.

“The drop in claims from 2022 to 2024 is encouraging, but the Easter period remains critical for road safety,” said Lebohang Tsotetsi, Insurance Risks Manager at SAIA. “Motorists need to stay vigilant and drive defensively as traffic volumes increase.”

Tsotetsi emphasised that Easter and Christmas remain the two peak periods for motor insurance claims, primarily due to higher traffic congestion as people travel to holiday destinations.

SAIA advises motorists to ensure their insurance policies are up to date and comprehensive, including benefits like roadside assistance and emergency support. In addition to adequate insurance coverage, SAIA released a set of practical safety tips for drivers — including planning ahead, checking vehicle conditions, resting well, and avoiding distractions while driving.

“Road safety is a shared responsibility,” Tsotetsi added. “The holiday season should be for making cherished memories, not dealing with preventable accidents.”

SAIA represents 58 members from across the non-life insurance industry and continues to advocate for a safer and more responsible driving culture in South Africa.