Community Policing Officer 

Fleeing from the scene of an accident, often referred to as a ‘hit-and-run’, is a serious offense that involves leaving the site of an accident without providing assistance or exchanging information with those involved. 

The Road Traffic and Transport Act 22 of 1999 clarifies the duties of drivers in the event of an accident. 

Section 78 of the Act stipulates that a driver, whose vehicle is involved in an accident on a public road, which contributes to loss of life, injury and damage to property or animal, should immediately stop the vehicle, ascertain the nature and extent of any injury sustained by any person and assist those injured if it is possible to do so. 

Lately, the trend of drivers fleeing the scene after being involved in accidents has become a growing and serious concern. 

Statistics reveal that Windhoek has seen an increased number of road traffic crashes, most of which have contributed to the loss of lives, injuries and damage to both public and private property. 

With these crashes, vulnerable road users bear the impact of most of the injuries sustained as a result. 

However, some drivers involved in these crashes have failed to adhere to their duties as drivers in the event of such crashes. 

In many cases, drivers may flee the scene because of the fear of arrest, as there may be alcohol involved. 

It is, however, important to highlight that drivers may face conviction for contravening section 78 (1) if it is proven in a court of law that after the accident, a driver had failed to either stop the vehicle, ascertain the nature of and extent of injuries sustained, render assistance or fled the scene for any reasons other than an injury that rendered them incapable of being at the scene and reporting the accident within 24 hours. 

Every driver, after getting involved in a crash, is obliged to ascertain the nature and extent of any damage sustained, provide their name, address and particulars of the vehicle driven by him or her if required to do so by anyone who provides reasonable grounds for requiring that information. 

Should a driver be unable to provide their details at the accident scene due to injuries sustained in the accident. 

They may report the accident within 24 hours after its occurrence and provide the relevant information required. In case of death or injury, not adhering to your duties as a driver may lead to a fine not exceeding N$12 000 or a maximum prison term not exceeding three years or both. 

In case of damage to property or animal, a maximum fine of N$4 000 or a prison term of not more than one year or both is what a driver faces should he be found guilty of failing to stop, ascertaining the nature and extent of the injuries sustained and leaving the scene for any reasons other than an injury. 

Ultimately, road safety is a shared responsibility that extends beyond law enforcement to every road user. 

If you witness anything unusual at an accident scene, it is your duty to take action whether by reporting the incident, offering assistance or providing crucial information to the police. 

*Contact the Windhoek City Police Service on 061 302 302 or 061 290 2239 for any emergencies and crime related issues.