Truck Driver Arrested for Drunk Driving in KZN
A truck driver has been arrested for drinking and driving in Van Reenen along the N3 Freeway by the Road Traffic Inspectorate, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (Saps).
The driver, who allegedly blew 0.32 mg/1000ml, three times more than the legal limit of 0.10 mg/1000 for professional drivers, is currently being held in Ladysmith.
MEC for Transport and Human Settlements, Siboniso Duma, confirmed the arrest and stated that the driver will make his first court appearance in August. This incident comes in the wake of another truck driver, who was caught driving intoxicated and is scheduled to appear in court on 18 August 2025 after blowing 2.0mg/1000ml, twenty times higher than the legal limit.
KZN Truck Accidents on the Rise
Recent months have seen a surge in truck accidents in KwaZulu-Natal, attributed to various factors. One incident on 16 May involved a collision between two trucks on the N3 Southbound after one truck experienced brake failure.
Another tragic accident occurred on the N2 highway near Empangeni, where a truck collided with a light delivery vehicle transporting passengers, resulting in multiple fatalities. Families were left devastated as eight victims lost their lives in the crash.
MEC Duma expressed concern over the high number of accidents in the province, particularly involving trucks. He emphasized a zero-tolerance approach towards drunk driving, citing the recent loss of nine lives in an accident in Empangeni as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless driving.
The Department of Transport has intensified efforts to crack down on irresponsible drivers through campaigns such as ‘no-nonsense, zero-tolerance’, and Alufakwa on the roads. With a focus on trucks due to their potential for causing extensive damage and serious injuries, authorities aim to make the country’s roads safer and prevent further economic losses.
According to MEC Duma, road accidents cost the South African economy over R164 billion annually, equivalent to 3.4% of the country’s GDP. The department is committed to eliminating hazardous driving behaviors and ensuring road safety for all motorists.
As the crackdown on reckless driving continues, the message is clear: the country’s roads are not playgrounds for irresponsible drivers, and stringent measures will be enforced to protect lives and prevent further tragedies.
Conclusion
With the recent arrests of truck drivers for drunk driving and the escalating number of truck accidents in KZN, authorities are taking proactive steps to address road safety concerns and hold offenders accountable. By prioritizing enforcement and awareness campaigns, the aim is to create a safer road environment and reduce the devastating impact of accidents on families and the economy.
