Travelling for Christmas? Mbalula says you should drive in the day

Transport minister Fikile Mbalula has urged motorists travelling during the festive season to make their journeys during the day to enhance alertness and visibility.

This after 13 people died and three were severely injured in an accident involving a minibus taxi and a lorry on Monday.

The crash took place at 3.15am on the N1 between Winburg and Verkeerdevlei in the Free State.

“I convey my condolences to the relatives and friends of those who lost their lives in the head-on collision. It is saddening that we continue to mourn the loss of loved ones as a result of road carnage,” said Mbalula.

The cause of the accident is being investigated.

“I implore motorists to exercise caution when driving at night. Road accident statistics show many fatal crashes occur at night. 

“I therefore repeat the importance of daytime driving, especially for long-distance trips,” he said.