By Staff Writer
The responsibility of road safety doesn’t rest solely on drivers, it’s a shared commitment between motorists and pedestrians. In South Africa, pedestrian fatalities remain alarmingly high, often due to a combination of negligence, poor visibility, and unsafe road behaviour.
Some years ago, a colleague accidentally knocked and killed a drunk pedestrian who was crossing the freeway in the dark. It was a tragic incident, one that left him deeply shaken. He was never the same after that night. Traumatised and riddled with guilt, he refused to drive again. No amount of reassurance that it wasn’t his fault could ease the emotional burden he carried.
These are the hidden effects of road accidents we rarely talk about, the psychological scars that stay with those involved, long after the scene is cleared. Road safety isn’t just about avoiding injury or death; it’s about preventing the emotional aftermath that can change lives forever. Whether you’re behind the wheel or on foot, road use comes with equal responsibility. Pedestrians must remain alert and visible, while drivers must exercise caution and patience — especially in high-risk areas. This week, we look at practical ways for both motorists and pedestrians to reduce accidents and make our roads safer for everyone.
Five Ways for Drivers to Look Out for Pedestrians
- Slow down near intersections and bus stops.
These are common pedestrian crossing points. Always reduce your speed and be ready to stop, even if there’s no marked crossing.
- Stay alert in poor visibility conditions
At night, during loadshedding or in rainy weather, visibility drops. Use your headlights correctly and be extra cautious in poorly lit areas. - Observe school zones and residential areas
Children can be unpredictable. Drive slowly and scan pavements and driveways for sudden movement. - Don’t overtake stopped vehicles at crossings
The vehicle may be yielding to a pedestrian. Wait until you’re sure the road is clear. - Always obey speed limits
Speed is a major factor in pedestrian fatalities. Driving within the limit gives you more time to react if someone steps into the road
Five Ways Pedestrians Can Stay Safe and Visible
- Wear bright or reflective clothing
Especially when walking early in the morning or at night, make sure drivers can see you. - Use designated Crossings
Pedestrian bridges, zebra crossings, and traffic lights are there for your safety.
Use them, even if it means walking a little further. - Stay off your phone
Avoid texting or listening to music when crossing. Stay aware of your
surroundings at all times. - Walk facing oncoming traffic where there are no pavements
If there’s no sidewalk, walk on the right-hand side of the road so you can see
approaching vehicles. - Be extra cautious at night and during loadshedding
Use a torch or your phone’s flashlight when walking in dark areas and cross
where there is lighting.
Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. By being more aware and considerate, whether on foot or behind the wheel, we can prevent unnecessary injuries and deaths. Let’s all do our part to keep South Africa’s roads safer for everyone.
