Fewer funerals on South Africa's roads: deaths down two years running

South Africa's roads are getting safer. Road deaths fell 6.2% in 2025 compared to 2024 — the lowest level in five years — and preliminary figures from January to August 2026 show a further 9% drop against the same period last year. The Transport Month launch brought a revised National Road Safety Strategy for 2026–2030 built on the 'safe system' approach, plus planned law changes for a zero alcohol limit for drivers, better treatment of hazardous road spots, stronger pedestrian infrastructure and tougher vehicle roadworthiness checks. The long-term target: halving road deaths by 2030. Behind every percentage point is a family that got to stay whole.