With the release of the 2025/2026 festive season road fatality statistics, it was revealed that not only did the fatality rate decrease by 5% compared to last year but there was also the lowest number of crashes in the last five years as well. This means that 75 less people died on our roads this season.
Despite the 5% decrease, 1 427 people still died during the 2025/2026 festive period. The Minster of Transport, Barbara Creecy, aptly expressed the reality of these decreases which is that it remains a ‘reason for national shame.’ It still represents over 1 400 families that will now start the new year with tragedy and additional challenges rather than hope and expectation.
The CEO of MasterDrive, Eugene Herbert, says the decrease now returns South Africa’s road fatality rate to the 2023/2024 level. “Last year’s fatality rate increased by 5%. While even one life saved is an achievement, the current decrease is more of a return to gains made previously rather than representing new progress.
“Ultimately, a 5% decrease is a return to where we were at the start of the downward trend in fatalities. The objective should be sustained, year-on-year decreases that build on previous achievements, not merely recovering lost ground. True progress is consistently moving beyond previous improvements, not oscillating around the same baseline.”
Additionally, Creecy noted that crashes involving alcohol remain a significant issue. “It was noted that in current society, a law allowing one to drink before driving, should not exist. It is worth noting that the law does not allow drinking and driving but is a regulation of BAC levels in order to drive safely.
“Additionally, a 0-BAC bringing about the needed change is also highly unlikely. Over 8 000 drivers were arrested for driving under the influence during the 2025/2026 season. If it was illegal to drink at all when driving, would this lower the number of drunk drivers on the road? Unlikely. Instead, it requires systemic change over time that alters societal attitudes toward drink driving.”
As we start the new year, let us keep the loss of 1 427 human lives in mind. “Many of these crashes were due to reckless and preventable decisions behind the wheel. Irrespective of whether the law is changed to reflect a 0-BAC, commit to making a change now. It is a commitment from society that will create real change.
“MasterDrive extends their condolences to all those affected by a fatality over what should have been a time for family and rest. Our thoughts are with all families whose lives were irrevocably changed,” says Herbert.
