IT IS not only the sound that VW Polos make which gives traffic cops a headache, but also the havoc they cause on the roads.
A study by Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has found that Polo drivers are the worst in Mzansi, and account for most fatal crashes on the roads.
“Most vehicle models involved in fatal crashes, with 16,7% of all accidents during the study period, are Volkswagen Polo. They are followed closely by Toyota Hilux and Toyota Quantum models, with a recorded 14,2% and 12,2%. In total, these three models were involved in 43,2% of fatal crashes,” the report said.
RTMC said by far, the three models also accounted for the most speed infringements (SI), with 35%.
The analysis period for cars involved in fatal crashes was between 1 October 2017 and 30 June last year.
The study looked at various categories, including the make of car, its age and that of the driver.
These models also ranked for the most speeding cars, with 35% of all SIs issued during the period.
“Even though not acceptable, considering that Toyota Quantum and Hiace vehicles are on the road on a semi-full-time basis and travel more million vehicle kilometres vs other models and would thus be exposed to more on road conflict situations and/or to driver fatigue, one could expect more fatal crashes for this type of classes,” the report stated.
Research warned that the high speeding violation, especially for public transport such as for Quantum and Hiace models, was however unacceptable and needed to be addressed.
RTMC said the aim of the report was to provide input to road safety programmes regarding the “type of
vehicle” involved in fatal crashes, among other things.
“This report further provides baseline analysis for further research as well as recommendations for further research and analysis that would provide scientific input towards reducing death and injury because of road crashes.”
