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Nqobile Tshili Chronicle Correspondent
A total of 10 people died in road accidents on Boxing Day this year, compared to four who died on the same day last year.

National police spokesperson Chief Superintendent Paul Nyathi yesterday said: “Total road traffic accidents were 47 in 2014, compared to 59 in 2015. Four people were killed in 2014 while 10 died in 2015. A total of 27 were injured in 2014 compared to 42 injuries this year.”

He said there was a decrease in number of unroadworthy vehicles that were impounded this year.

Chief Supt Nyathi said 67 cars were impounded this year against 2014’s 139 vehicles.

Police arrested 5,838 motorists for various traffic offences this year while 6,371 were arrested last year.

He said motorists should remain cautious on the roads as their safety is paramount.

“We urge motorists to maintain safe travelling speed and observe road rules and regulations. Passengers and pedestrians shouldn’t be negligent,” he said.

On Christmas Day this year, Chief Supt Nyathi said, 81 road accidents were recorded and 87 were recorded last year on the same day.

He said there were four deaths and 64 injuries compared to 10 fatalities and 69 injuries in 2014.

“A total of 121 vehicles were impounded for defects and being unroadworthy compared to last year’s 149. In terms of arrests there were 7,017 compared to last year’s 7,045,” said Chief Supt Nyathi.

The festive period is one of the bloodiest holidays in the country and human error has been singled out as a major reason for accidents.

The festive season runs from December 15 to January 15.