Truck accidents are common in South Africa. They account for more fatalities per crash than any other type of road accident.
In this article, we look at some of the contributing factors and breakdown the latest truck accident statistics in South Africa:
- truck accident statistics in South Africa
- pedestrians injured or killed in truck accidents
- other factors contributing to SA’s truck accident statistics
- truck accident claims in South Africa.
Recent truck accident statistics
A report by the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) in 2023 found that there were 2,237 fatal truck crashes involving 3,546 trucks over a five-year period. This is an average of at least one per day for five years.
KwaZulu-Natal recorded the highest number of these accidents with 22.4% of the total crashes happening in the province. The lowest number, 2.5%, was recorded in the Northern Province.
The report also found that the number of fatalities per crash is higher for accidents involving trucks compared to accidents involving other types of vehicles. An accident is more likely to have fatalities if a truck is involved.
Pedestrians injured or killed in truck accidents
Pedestrians are especially vulnerable to injury or death if they’re involved in a truck accident.
According to the RTMC, 34.8% of South African truck accidents that resulted in fatalities involved pedestrians.
Contributory factors include a lack of pavements and pedestrian bridges on roads, as well as poor road safety awareness.
Alcohol consumption by drivers and pedestrians exacerbates the issue. Poor lighting in areas where there are numerous pedestrians is also a problem.
Many crowded settlements are located alongside busy roads that pedestrians walk along or cross. This is particularly dangerous at night.
Other factors contributing to SA’s truck accident statistics
Poor road conditions are a major contributing factor to South Africa’s truck accident statistics. Many road surfaces are in poor condition with dangerous potholes that are made worse by heavy traffic.
Some trucks are old and poorly maintained or not even roadworthy. Overloaded trucks pose a serious hazard to the occupants and other road users.
Due to our failing rail system, South Africa relies heavily on trucks to transport goods. This means a high number of trucks on roads.
Finally, poor adherence to safety protocols by truck owners and drivers is an issue. Drivers stay behind the wheel for extended periods when overtired to meet deadlines and avoid traffic.
Truck accident claims in South Africa
Due to the alarming truck accident statistics in South Africa, accidents and injuries involving trucks are common.
Anyone injured in a truck accident may be able to claim compensation from the Road Accident Fund.
If you believe you have a claim, the first step is to contact a suitably experienced personal injury attorney.
How we can help
At DSC Attorneys, we have extensive experience with Road Accident Fund claims, including those involving truck accidents in South Africa. We work on a no-win, no-fee basis. Contact us for legal advice and representation that is ethical, effective and caring.
