The festive season got off to a bad start after eight people, including children, were killed in a bus crash on the N1 near Worcester, Western Cape, Sunday morning, according to The Daily Voice.
As reported by the SABC News, Western Cape Mobility Minister, Isaac Seleku says the bus was travelling from the Eastern Cape to the Western Cape when it overturned. He added that the bus was supposed to stop to rest in Worcester when the incident occurred. Other passengers were taken to the hospital after sustaining injuries.
Several emergency workers were summoned to the scene to assist. The N1 was temporarily closed to ensure safety and facilitate necessary operations due to the seriousness of the accident.
WHAT CAUSED THE ACCIDENT?
The Citizen reported that the cause of the accident is not known yet, and investigations are taking place. Sileku urged road users to prioritise safety when travelling on the road during the holidays, as it is heavily used during the festive season and accidents are likely to occur.
He said, “Let us work together to prevent further tragedies and ensure that everyone reaches their destinations safely.”
SELEKU EXTENDS HIS CONDOLENCES
Seleku gave his condolences to those who were affected by the bus accident.
He expressed, “This is a heartbreaking incident, and our thoughts are with the families and loved ones who of those who tragically lost their lives. We also wish a full and speedy recovery to those injured.”
He added that the Western Cape Government will lend its hand during this difficult time.
Western Cape Minister of Social Development, Jaco Londt, was also at the scene of the accident to offer support to those affected.
“I have also contacted my counterpart in the Eastern Cape, as some affected passengers are from there, so we may coordinate support efforts,” she said.
BUS ACCIDENT STATS
According to dsclaw, bus crashes lead to serious injuries, where some individuals end up losing their lives. In early 2024, a horrific bus accident in Limpopo claimed the lives of 45 people, leaving only one sole survivor. Other accidents occurred a few months back when a bus crash in the Free State claimed six lives and left 48 injured.
A study by the Road Traffic Management Corporation reported that, in a five-year period, there were 323 buses involved in fatal crashes, and 487 people lost their lives in these crashes.
CLAIMING FOR RAF IF INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT
Arrive Alive reported that if the identity of the offending driver is known, you can lodge a claim within three years of the accident occurring. If the offender is unknown, you may claim within two years of the accident occuring. Claiming is free of charge at RAF branch offices; however, if you decide to get a lawyer, you will be charged.
Steps to follow:
- Obtain the RAF 1 form and provide details about the accident.
- Get the RAF 3 form, a statutory accident report.
- Complete the RAF 4 form; this must be completed by a medical practioner (e.g..doctor) if there a severe injuries and you want to claim for general damages. You may submit this form after the lodging the claim.
What do you think is the high cause of road accidents during the festive season?
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