As long weekends approach, are you aware of the risks associated with drunk driving? Explore the unexpected consequences and discover safer choices for your celebrations this Freedom Day.
Image: Tumi Pakkies / Independent Newspapers
As South Africans prepare for another long weekend, marked by Freedom Day celebrations, concerns about road safety are escalating.
Sherry Sibeko, Executive Head of Personal Lines at Miway Insurance, highlights a disturbing trend: despite a reported decline in alcohol consumption in South Africa by 30%, DUI arrests surged by 39% over the recent Easter weekend compared to the previous year.
The data paints a grim picture: long weekends, often associated with leisure and celebration, also correlate with a rise in dangerous driving behaviours.
“Driving under the influence remains one of the greatest threats to road safety in South Africa. Unfortunately, history shows that fatalities on the road spike during these festive periods,” Sibeko said.
With Freedom Day on a Monday this year, families are likely planning outings and road trips, but Sibeko warned of the serious consequences that can arise from impaired driving.
The legal repercussions for those guilty of driving under the influence are severe.
Offenders could face up to six years in jail, fines reaching R120,000, and potential suspension of their driver’s licence. Moreover, a drunk driving conviction leads to a criminal record, which can have lifelong implications.
Sibeko emphasised that in addition to immediate penalties, motorists must be wary of the long-term impacts dictated by the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) Act, which is being rolled out across various municipalities.
Come 1 September 2026, the full demerit points system will be in effect, and continuous infractions could see licences suspended or terminated.
“Insurance claims related to accidents involving impaired drivers are frequently denied.This leaves individuals to foot the bill for substantial repair costs and third-party liabilities,” Sibeko said.
One pressing question many drivers face is: how much alcohol is too much? Sibeko reveals the complexity of this query: “Factors like body weight, metabolism, food intake, and even fatigue shape how alcohol is processed, making it virtually impossible to define a universally safe limit for all.”
Given these variables, Sibeko insists the safest course is to forgo alcohol if driving is on the agenda.
She introduced Miway's innovative solution, WeDrive, a take-me-home service designed to help customers enjoy their time out without compromising on safety.
“With WeDrive, both the driver and their vehicle can be safely brought home, ensuring a responsible conclusion to the evening,” she said.
Sibeko added, “It only takes one point over the legal limit to seal your fate. Planning ahead, booking transport 48 hours in advance, and making safe choices are vital this Freedom Weekend.”
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