South Africa, an increasingly popular destination, faces significant challenges regarding road safety. The Harvard GSS risk rating for South Africa is elevated risk. Some of the factors that influence this rating for Harvard affiliates include violent crime, periodic social unrest, road safety conditions, and infrastructure concerns.
Road Safety Challenges in South Africa
Road safety is a concern nationwide. Travelers are advised not to self-drive because conditions may vary from what you’re used to. Public transit is available but not recommended for visitors due to security concerns. Using a licensed taxicab or hiring a prearranged car service are both preferable. Be mindful that traffic drives on the left.
As we are nearing the end of another year, we look back and reflect on our achievements, which usually fills us with a sense of joy and happiness. We also reflect on our difficulties, with a purpose of coming up with measures to overcome them. However, this time of the year also presents us with increased road traffic accidents (RTAs). This is one of the greatest challenges that South Africa (and the world) faces.
Research studies reported the RTA frequency to be more than 20%, which is disturbing given numerous policies and programmes in place for road safety and reducing RTA in different countries. In developing countries, the RTA frequency was found to be higher than in developed countries. South Africa is no exception to this staggering rise in RTA. It is one of the major public health problems we face with a tremendous burden on the already strained healthcare system.
It was reported that 12 436 people lost their lives because of RTAs in the year 2022, with a population death rate of 20.7 per 100 000 population. In 2023, there was 10 180 fatal crashes that led to 11 883 deaths and 5360 pedestrians losing their lives because of RTA. It is scary to observe that over 21% of RTA mortality in 2023 involved hit-and-run incidents, meaning the perpetrator may not be apprehended to face his or her crime.
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The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic with curfew and reduced access to alcohol showed us that drastic reduction of road traffic accidents is possible. There are many causes of RTA, and often there are multiple factors in play during one RTA. The factors contributing most to RTA in South Africa include speeding, distraction, use of alcohol or other substances, inadequate law enforcement, use of unroadworthy vehicles, poor road conditions, pedestrians’ lack of knowledge, etc.
According to the Western Cape road safety facts, the speed limits in South Africa are: 60 km/h on a public road within an urban area, 100 km/h on public roads outside an urban area, which is not a freeway and 120 km/h on freeways. A motor vehicle moving at a high speed has an increased risk of causing an accident and causing severe injuries to other road users, such as pedestrians.
Distraction among road users has been found to be a growing problem that contributes significantly to RTA. Types of distraction can be visual distraction (e.g., looking away from the road, texting on a cell phone, etc.), auditory distraction (e.g. responding to a ringing cell phone), biomechanical distraction (e.g. manually adjusting the radio volume) and cognitive distraction.
Road Safety: Understanding Road Accidents and Primary Causes in South Africa
Preventative Measures and Solutions
Preventative measures that can be employed to reduce and prevent RTA in South Africa are increased visibility of traffic police officials on the road, and this will ensure most of the road users obey the rules of the road. Road users tend to modify their behaviour on the road when they see law enforcement officers. This is particularly important because human error has been found to be the main cause of accidents and crashes on the roads.
Empowering traffic officers to have in-depth knowledge, skills and attitude about road safety is also an important preventative measure. The use of technology in the prevention of RTA is also an important measure to employ. Various devices such as breathalyser testing equipment to detect the blood alcohol limit, speed cameras, surveillance cameras, body worn cameras, etc.
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The basic rule of the road is that the road users should keep their eyes on the road, hands on the wheel and the mind concentrating on driving. One way to achieve this is by minimising or avoiding distractions while on the road. Education programmes and awareness campaigns on how to avoid distractions among road users are essential; this will include hands free operation of devices like cell phones, no texting while driving, etc. Learning road traffic safety and driving safely on the roads may even be started at high school.
The road traffic laws in South Arica must be strictly enforced and bribery and corruption need to be weeded out. At present it seems the traffic laws are blatantly broken with no serious consequences. Family physicians can play a vital role by leading health awareness campaigns on the prevention of RTA. Such campaigns have been found to have a positive effect on the prevention of RTA and RTI (road traffic injuries).
As frontline and first contact healthcare practitioners, we can promote good health and prevent RTA by talking to patients about safety on the roads such as not driving under influence of alcohol, the harmful effects of alcohol, importance of wearing seat belts and not texting while driving, et cetera. These campaigns should be held both inside and outside the healthcare facilities, in schools, places of worship, community gatherings, etc. We need to continue to see ourselves as a network of support services such as referring people with alcohol abuse problems for psychological support.
South Africa's Road Network
South Africa’s major roads are called national routes, similar to motorways in the UK. These are referred to with an ‘N’, followed by a number like N1, and they connect major cities across the country. The national routes are then connected to provincial routes which link smaller towns and cities, marked with ‘R’, such as R21. The smallest roads, known as regional routes, usually in more rural areas are labelled ‘R’ followed by three numbers, such as R500.
Driving in South Africa can be safe with key preparations, such as route planning, road trip essentials and being alert to your surroundings. Staying on major routes and tourist hotspots is usually well-maintained with good road conditions.
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Main Safety Risks
- Poor road conditions
- Traffic
- Pedestrians
- Wildlife
- Non-roadworthy cars
- Erratic drivers
- Crime
- Night-time driving
- Remote areas
Driving during the day provides better visibility and reduces the likelihood of an accident. Staying safe in South Africa is possible with common sense and self-awareness. Keep your doors locked and valuables out of sight, and plan your route to avoid unsafe areas. We’ve included a list of unsafe areas in South Africa in our Staying Safe in South Africa guide.
Driving in South Africa is a wonderful way to explore the country and discover the variety of beautiful landscapes.
Tips for Safe Driving
- Watch out for potholes: They can be hard to see especially when driving faster on major roads.
- Avoid driving at night: It’s hard to spot potholes at night, and many of the roads are not well lit.
- Keep your distance: Many cars are uninsured or in poor driving condition. Be aware of slow and erratic drivers; keep a safe distance from the car in front of you.
- Be cautious when overtaking: Slower vehicles often move onto the hard shoulder to let you pass, only overtake if it is safe.
- Look out for pedestrians: People often walk on the side of main roads or cross them without warning.
- Lock your doors: Most South African cars automatically lock as you start to drive. Avoid displaying valuables when driving through cities or stopping at traffic lights
- Look out for Minibus taxis: These can stop suddenly or change lanes without indicating, give them plenty of space.
- Stop fully at stop signs: At stop signs you must come to a complete stop. At a crossroads, the first car to arrive at the stop sign has right of way.
- Stay in your vehicle at petrol stations: Most attendants will fill your tank, asking how much you want to fill up. They will offer to clean your windscreen, fill up screenwash, etc.
Police stops are common in South Africa and can feel intimidating. Stay calm, polite and keep the following documents ready; driving licence, car rental paperwork or vehicle registration.
If you are unsure whether they are legitimate police, ask for their name, badge number and police station they are from. Ask politely for this information before handing over any identification or documents and keep car doors locked.
Unfortunately, corrupt officers may ask for bribes, claiming you have committed a traffic offence or you have improper documents. In these situations, they are looking for cash to make you feel like this is the only way out of the situation. When being asked to pay a bribe, it’s best to ask for a written fine or formal charge. If you haven’t already, ask for the police officer's badge number and name and that you’d like to resolve it at the nearest police station. Report any suspicious behaviour to 10111, a police emergency number, or call your rental company for assistance.
There have been reports of criminals disguised as tourist police, which don’t exist in South Africa. They use flashing blue lights and ask you to check your bags.
4x4 rentals
Renting a 4x4 in South Africa unlocks the ultimate freedom to explore in greater depth and get off the main tourist routes. When we took a 4x4 from Johannesburg to Cape Town, we discovered a few important things to make an enjoyable experience.
Before driving off in your rental car at the airport, take photos and videos of the bodywork and tyres. If unsure, ask how to engage 4WD and low-range gears.
A 4x4 is recommended for the following places:
- Sani Pass
- Kruger National Park
- Mountain Zebra National Park
- Wild Coast
- Lesotho
When driving around game reserves or national parks, a car with high ground clearance and low-range gears is ideal. Most of the national parks have tarmac routes which are suitable for most cars; even in a 4x4, you can only drive on marked roads.
When camping in remote areas, make sure to have recovery gear, fuel jerry cans and spare tyres. Fill up regularly and have at least 1/2 tank of fuel where possible. Our 4x4 rental had an extended tank, which gave a total of 120 litres.
Overlanding into neighbouring countries requires paperwork that can be completed by the rental company before you arrive. Make sure you have this paperwork with you at border control.
Low-range gears are great for muddy, rocky and steep roads. When driving on off-road routes, check weather conditions beforehand. During heavy rain, roads can quickly change, especially with river crossings, making it difficult or impossible to pass. In these situations it’s worth having a plan B.
Check with your rental company what equipment will be provided in the vehicle.
Scenic Routes
South Africa offers several incredible drives, ranging from challenging mountain passes to breathtaking coastal roads.
Panorama Route
As the name suggests, this scenic route takes you through Mpumalanga’s highlands, with spectacular waterfalls and the stunning Blyde River Canyon. The Panorama Route is ideal for a day drive or a relaxed weekend getaway. It can also be added onto a visit to Kruger National Park.
Sani Pass & Lesotho
A 4x4-only route, the Sani Pass is an iconic road which climbs up to 2,876 metres, making it one of the highest mountain passes in South Africa. At the top of the pass, you’ll arrive at the border of Lesotho. Visit the highest pub in Africa for spectacular views on a clear day.
Kruger National Park
The ultimate South African self-drive safari experience, Kruger National Park is the size of Wales, offering a chance to spot the Big Five and so much more! Stay overnight in a rest camp for the best chances of spotting wildlife and hearing the lion roars at night.
Garden Route
A stunning coastal drive, stretching over 300km from Mossel Bay to Storms River. The Garden Route takes you through some of the most lush, green landscapes.
Chapman's Peak Drive
The famous Chapmans Peak Drive follows the cliffs between Hout Bay and Noordhoek in Cape Town. It’s the perfect sunset cruise, put your windows down and soak in the incredible coastal views.
Johannesburg to Cape Town
An epic overland adventure through Kruger NP, Eswatini, Drakensberg Mountains, Lesotho, Karoo and Garden Route spanning over 3 weeks.
Wild Coast
The untamed wild coast is known for its remote, beautiful beaches and wildlife. A fantastic route for 4x4s, with tracks through sand dunes to off-grid campsites.
Global Comparison
The roads we travel shouldn’t be places where lives are lost daily, yet millions of drivers worldwide face significantly higher risks simply based on their location. Recent comprehensive studies analyzing global road safety data reveal stark differences between countries when it comes to driving dangers.
From mountainous regions with treacherous curves to nations struggling with infrastructure challenges, some destinations pose extraordinary threats to motorists and passengers alike.
South Africa
South Africa consistently emerges as one of the world’s most dangerous places to drive, with 25.2 deaths per 100,000 people, placing it among the top three globally. The country faces a particular crisis with seat belt usage, where only 31% of front seat occupants buckle up, compared to Norway’s impressive 97.8%.
The 2024/2025 festive season highlighted this ongoing crisis, with South Africa recording 1,502 fatalities from 1,234 crashes between December 1, 2024, and January 20, 2025, marking a 5.3% increase in year-on-year fatalities.
The impact of alcohol on road safety remains staggering, with South Africa ranking sixth globally in alcohol consumption per drinker, and at least 27% of driver-error attributed fatal crashes caused by alcohol intoxication.
Despite having less than 3% of the world’s vehicle fleet, Africa as a continent experiences a road traffic fatality rate of 19 deaths per 100,000 people, compared to just 7 per 100,000 in Europe.
Other Dangerous Countries
- Lebanon: Faces significant infrastructure strain and dangerous driving behaviors.
- Thailand: Has the highest rate for road-related deaths globally, with motorcycles accounting for most accidents.
- Bulgaria: Europe’s deadliest country for road deaths, struggling with infrastructure and enforcement challenges.
- Venezuela: High rates of violent crime and deteriorating road infrastructure.
- Colombia: Challenging terrain and infrastructure limitations create hazardous conditions.
- Uruguay: Faces significant challenges in road safety, with treacherous weather conditions.
- Costa Rica: Mountainous terrain and heavy rainfall contribute to dangerous driving conditions.
Pothole Crisis
Over the past decade, South Africa’s roads have rapidly deteriorated, with potholes representing a huge infrastructure challenge. While a lack of regular maintenance has compounded the problem, extreme weather events, such as floods, have ravaged the roads.
The country has a small window of opportunity to address existing road infrastructure challenges. Municipalities, policymakers, and the private sector must collaborate to future-proof infrastructure and ensure that the country is equipped to cope with an increasingly volatile climate.
According to South Africa’s Department of Transport, the country’s road network is among the 10 longest in the world, spanning more than 750,000 km. Many roads were not designed to withstand unpredictable and increasingly frequent climate extremes. This is supported by data from the National Climate Change Information System which has reported a vast increase in flash floods and drought conditions since 2010.
Potholes are a visible consequence, posing serious challenges not only to infrastructure integrity but also to economic stability, access to services, and disaster response capabilities.
The increasing pothole damage is a global challenge. Data from local authorities in the UK has revealed that more than one million potholes have been recorded in the past year, the highest number reported in five years. Similarly, the European Union has acknowledged that harsh winters, prolonged droughts and increased flooding have led to a significant rise in potholes.
Potholes are no longer seen as a basic road maintenance issue, isolated from broader climate dynamics. Based on this, a notable shift has occurred within the insurance industry which has begun developing innovative methods to accurately quantify climate-related risks into their underwriting models and product offerings.
For instance, several South African insurance companies have reported an increase in weather-related claims, including the accelerated wear of tyres due to road deterioration and potholes. This points to broader economic and safety concerns, as vehicle owners face higher maintenance costs and increased risk, while municipalities struggle to keep pace with repairs.
The impacts of climate change are further compounded by the country’s growing urban population. More than 60% of South Africa’s population are living in urban areas, creating pressure on stretched municipal maintenance systems. This creates a cycle where inadequate infrastructure maintenance exacerbates the vulnerability of roads to extreme weather, further increasing the burden on local governments and municipalities.
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