Human Error Cited as Primary Cause in Fatal Vaal Learner Transport Crash

Gauteng Traffic Police emphasises the deadly cost of human error on the roads following a fatal crash that claimed the lives of 12 learners in the Vaal on Monday. Seven survivors were transported to nearby hospitals, including the minibus and truck drivers. Spokesperson Sello Maremane said witnesses reported seeing the minibus attempting to overtake multiple vehicles. In an effort to avoid an oncoming truck, the minibus veered off the road, and so did the truck, resulting in both vehicles crashing. “About 80% of our road crashes are attributed to human error,” says Maremane. He explained that the legal requirements for operating a public transport vehicle include obtaining a permit, having a driver’s license, and passing a vehicle roadworthiness test. However, he acknowledged that not everyone adheres to these regulations, and the police are working to address this issue. “Our traffic officers are on site and stopping vehicles daily; they are even going to schools to check and verify how many learners are ferried, but traffic officers are not stretched in every corner of the street. We are trying our best.” To listen to Maremane in conversation with 702’s Bongani Bingwa, use the audio player below: