'Drunk driving to blame for high number of deaths on SA roads'
The Department of Transport says drunk driving was the biggest cause of fatal crashes over the festive season.
The department has vowed to increase law enforcement operations and upscale awareness to curb the high numbers of crashes on the country's roads.
The department Ishmael Mnisi says most crashes were due to motorists driving under the influence of alcohol, as well as speeding and unroadworthy vehicles.
" Driving under the influence of alcohol increased during this the festive season with a collaboration of fatigue and unroadworthy vehicles become lethal problems particularly on long-distance travellers."
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More than 1 000 motorists were arrested in Gauteng during the festive season for drunk driving, says Mnisi, adding that the department will be working with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) to arrest those who break the law.
" Minister (Blade) Nzimande will also be having an urgent engagement with the Department of Justice and the NPA to ensure that serious cases involving violations of traffic laws are prosecuted expeditiously to send a strong message that there is zero tolerance to the transgression of road rules."
Nzimande will also engage the Department of Trade and Industry to review the trading hours of liquor stores and restaurants where alcohol is sold.
He is set to announce the preliminary number of deaths on the country's roads on Friday.