THE Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Fund recorded 494 fatalities from 1 January to 3 November 2019, which represents an increase of 8% compared to figures recorded over the same period last year.
The fund, however, recorded fewer injuries than last year, with 4 886 injuries recorded over this period compared to 5 117 documented last year, the MVA Fund said in a statement.
A total of 2 972 crashes were recorded from January until 3 November 2019, while 3 176 crashes were recorded over the same period last year, representing a decrease of 6%.
The statement further said to determine the causes of motor vehicle accidents in Namibia, the MVA Fund recently commissioned research in the regions with the highest number of accidents including Khomas, Erongo, Otjozondjupa, Oshana and Kavango, chief of corporate affairs at MVA, Surihe Gaomas-Guchu told Nampa.
“We believe this research will make a positive contribution to understanding the scientific causes of road crashes in Namibia and ultimately aid in reducing road carnage in our country,” she said.
She, however, noted that there are three risk factors associated with accidents – roads, road users and vehicle fitness.
“According to the safe system approach, roads should be designed in a way that reduces the risk of crashes and severity of injuries if an accident occurs,” Gaomas-Guchu said.
With regards to road users, research has shown that human error accounts for 93% of accidents, either as a driver, passenger or pedestrian. Unsafe behaviour by road users include speeding, distracted driving such as using mobile phones, inattentiveness and non-adherence to general road rules.
“Every road user is expected to use the road safely and comply with traffic rules and regulations to minimise the risks,” Gaomas-Guchu said.
For vehicle fitness, she said vehicles are designed and regulated to minimise the occurrence and consequences of crashes.
“In relation to vehicle safety, some vehicles are not maintained to the highest safety standards which makes them a danger to other road users if operated on national roads. The driver must always ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy and in a good working condition before embarking on a journey,” Gaomas-Guchu stated.
She said notwithstanding these risk factors, the fund embarks on regular road safety awareness campaigns with its partners and in line with the Decade of Action strategy. – Nampa
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