Analysis of factors contributing to road fatalities in the Emfuleni local Municipality, South Africa

Abstract

The objective of this study is to examine and analyze the many factors that contribute to the occurrence of automobile deaths within the Emfuleni Local Municipality. This study employed a hybrid analytics approach, employing a non-probability convenience sampling strategy. The researchers employed a descriptive study methodology to gather a sample of 168 participants, consisting of both traffic cops and motorists. The primary outcomes of the investigation revealed that road configuration, including small roads, hills, and sharp curves, was one of several influential elements in the occurrence of road traffic accidents (RTA). The dataset under analysis reveals that a substantial proportion of respondents possessing a standard 10/matric/grade 12 certificate had a higher level of agreement compared to those with a diploma/bachelor's degree about the primary responsibility of road layout in road traffic accidents (RTAs). The majority of participants identified stray or wild animals as a significant contributing cause to road accidents. Notably, female respondents and motorists residing in Emfuleni Municipality exhibited the highest level of agreement on this matter. Another significant contributing element was the presence of malfunctioning traffic signals, which was widely acknowledged as a causative factor in road collisions. The majority of respondents who possessed a standard 10/matric/grade 12 education exhibited the highest level of agreement. The results ultimately demonstrated that a majority of the participants concurred that a significant portion of the drivers and automobiles present on the road were not suitable for sharing the roads with other drivers, leading to the elevated occurrence of road traffic fatalities. The present circumstance necessitates prompt attention. Suggestions were proposed to provide assistance to the pertinent parties.