RAF warns drivers to avoid road trauma this festive season

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) has issued a public alert urging Eastern Cape residents and South Africans at large to stay safe on the roads this December.

In 2024/2025, the RAF registered over 65,000 new claims, with major contributors including:

• Pedestrian incidents
• Hit-and-run collisions
• Single-vehicle rollovers
• Head-on crashes

The fund warns that failure to follow basic road rules may lead to life-altering injuries such as brain trauma, fractures, paralysis or even death.

“Our work heightens our awareness of the distress that follows motor vehicle accidents,” said Acting CEO Mr Radikwena Phora.

How to stay safe this December

The RAF has listed critical actions that drivers and pedestrians must take to reduce crashes:

For Drivers

• Check vehicle and tyre condition before travel
• Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Use seatbelts at all times
• Children under 7 must be in a child seat

For Pedestrians

• Wear bright clothing at night
• Cross at designated areas
• Stay alert near high-traffic zones

Most common injuries from car crashes

Failing to follow road safety rules often results in serious trauma. Common injuries include:

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What the RAF is doing to prevent road deaths

The RAF has expanded its national safety strategy, especially in high-risk areas like KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape:

• 119 new speed humps and pedestrian crossings
• 986 taxi, bus and truck drivers trained in defensive driving
• 604 school transport drivers upskilled
• 360 youth granted driver permits and licences
• Support for scholar patrols, cyclists and road safety projects

RAF contact and support channels

If you or someone you know is affected by a road accident, contact RAF through the following:

For updates, follow RAF on X (@RAF_SA) or Facebook (@RoadAccidentFund).