Drunk driving remains one of the most devastating contributors to road fatalities in South Africa. Each year, countless lives are lost and families torn apart due to preventable crashes caused by alcohol-impaired driving. As the headline sponsor of the Car of the Year competition, Old Mutual Insure highlights the importance of responsible choices on the road and the life-saving value of choosing to drive sober. As part of the Isipho Sami (My Gift) campaign, we aim to remind drivers that every safe decision is a gift to loved ones and fellow road users.
“Around 58% of road deaths in South Africa are linked to drunk driving, nearly triple the global average.”
The Scope of Drunk Driving in South Africa
South Africa ranks among the countries with the highest rates of alcohol-related traffic fatalities globally. According to the World Health Organization, approximately 58% of road deaths in the country are attributed to drunk driving, a stark contrast to the 20% global average. A recent survey further revealed that South African drivers often lack awareness of the dangers of alcohol impairment, believing they can still control a vehicle after drinking.
The Physical and Cognitive Impact of Alcohol
Even a single drink can affect your ability to drive safely. In South Africa, the legal limit is 0.05 grams per 100 millilitres. For most people, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.05% is about one standard drink, like a small glass of wine or a beer. However, this can vary based on body weight, age, and gender. The limit is much stricter for professional drivers, at 0.02%, meaning even half a drink could push them over the legal limit. It’s best to avoid any alcohol before driving, as even small amounts can slow your reaction time and impact your focus, increasing the chances of a serious accident.
Societal Attitudes and Enforcement Challenges
One of the major obstacles to reducing drunk driving is the societal tolerance for the behaviour. Unlike other countries where drinking and driving is heavily stigmatised, South Africa has yet to see widespread social condemnation of the act. This lack of stigma makes it challenging to address the issue effectively.
Technology and the Role of Modern Vehicles
Modern vehicles now come equipped with technology to combat impaired driving. Some vehicles feature in-car breathalysers, which prevent the engine from starting if alcohol is detected in the driver’s system. Driver monitoring systems and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in newer vehicles can also detect erratic driving patterns, alerting drivers to take breaks if necessary.
These innovations, spotlighted in the Car of the Year competition, are steps toward making the roads safer for all. However, these features cannot replace personal responsibility; drivers must choose to be accountable for their safety and that of others.
What Can Be Done to Combat Drunk Driving?
Education, stricter penalties, and a cultural shift are essential to addressing South Africa’s drunk driving epidemic. Public awareness campaigns that emphasise the serious risks of drunk driving can encourage drivers to consider their loved ones each time they get behind the wheel. By viewing safe driving as a gift to those who matter most, the campaign aims to reduce instances of impaired driving.
Driving Sober is a Gift to All
Old Mutual Insure’s Isipho Sami (My Gift) campaign is a reminder of the simple yet profound impact of driving sober. Every choice to avoid drinking and driving is a powerful act of care for family, friends, and fellow citizens. This holiday season, make a pledge to drive responsibly and give the ultimate gift of safety on the road.
Sources: