Limpopo records 14% decrease in road crashes and 10% decline in road fatalities

Limpopo Premier Dr. Phophi Ramathuba has confirmed that the province saw a 14% decline in road crashes, coupled with a further 10% decrease in road fatalities, over the busy festive period dating from 1 December 2025 to 15 January 2026, which is an impressive record compared to the previous financial year’s figures for the same period.

These unequivocal statistics reflect the efficacy of committed road safety interventions by the Limpopo Provincial Government over the years.

“During the festive season of 2025/26, the province documented 125 fatal crashes, a significant decrease from 145 the previous year.

Furthermore, 171 fatalities were recorded in 2025/26, down from 190 in 2024/25. Behind these numbers lie the stories of lives saved and families preserved from the anguish associated with road fatalities.” Dr. Ramathuba confirmed

Despite that, Premier Ramathuba did express her dissatisfaction at a manner in which the N1 corridor emerged as the deadliest route which claimed 25 lives over the same festive period.

Dr. Ramathuba reckons that these essential economic thoroughfares demand heightened attention and rigorous enforcement to enhance safety.
She also bemoaned reckless driving and expressed concerns over the safety of passengers and pedestrians heading forward.

“The data analysis further confirms that driver behavior is the predominant factor leading to these tragic incidents, with reckless driving – particularly unsafe overtaking – culpable in 115 of these fatalities. The statistics reveal that 48 pedestrians lost their lives during this period; many of these incidents are classified as hit-and-runs, which reveals a distressing disregard for human life and the law.” She added
259 motorists were detained for driving under the influence of alcohol, while an additional nine (motorists) were detained for excessive speeding.

The provincial Department of Transport have acted decisively to safeguard public transport passengers by impounding 20 overloaded taxis and buses due to roadworthiness issues and non-compliance with required documentation.

Dr. Ramathuba highlighted that while it is encouraging to witness a decrease in crashes and fatalities, motorists must remain vigilant and dedicated to government mission to preserve lives on the road as each life lost on the road is a tragedy that resonates deeply within our communities.