Nine Killed in Road Crashes on Independence Day
Tragic road accidents claimed the lives of nine individuals and left 25 others injured on Independence Day, according to reports from the police. A total of 100 road traffic accidents were recorded nationwide during the holiday period, marking an increase in both the number of fatalities and injuries compared to the same period the previous year when four people were killed and 22 were injured in 133 accidents.
The police attributed most of the accidents to human error, including factors such as speeding, inattention, misjudgment, overtaking error, and failure to adhere to road rules and regulations by drivers.
One fatal accident occurred along the Harare-Bulawayo Road at the 166-kilometre mark. At approximately 11 a.m., a Ford Ranger twin cab carrying three passengers veered off the road, overturned, and landed on its wheels. Tragically, three individuals lost their lives, while one person sustained injuries.
Another fatal accident took place at the 29-kilometre mark along the Bulawayo-Beitbridge Road at around 4:40 p.m. A motorist was killed, and three passengers were injured when a Toyota Granvia vehicle veered off the road to the left, collided with a bunker, overturned once, and landed on its wheels.
Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the national police spokesperson, emphasized that the analysis conducted by the police revealed that the majority of accidents were caused by human error. He urged motorists and stakeholders to adopt a new mindset regarding road safety during holidays. Asst Comm Nyathi stressed the importance of responsible driving, adherence to road safety regulations, and setting an example for others.
