Citation

Kashona P, Pazvakawambwa L. J. Econ. Int. Bus. Manage. 2014; 2(2): 36-41.

Affiliation

Department of Statistics and Population Studies, University of Namibia (lpazvakawambwa@unam.na)

Copyright

(Copyright © 2014, ScienceWeb Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Since independence the city of Windhoek has grown rapidly, the geographical area for the city has gone beyond expectation and the increase in infrastructure has made the city a destination of choice for tourists and businessmen. Despite its commendable attractions, the city has been criticized for numerous life threatening incidents which include road accidents and other traffic violations. A significant increase in traffic violation and subsequent road accidents around the city has become a concern as it interferes with smooth flow of business, health and general wellbeing of Windhoek. The city reprimands these road offenders with fines and tickets but it is not clear whether these are punitive enough. Daily data from January to April 2012 was collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests to establish the nature and extent, and relationships between various traffic offence variables. Results indicated that some vehicles operating on the public roads are not roadworthy (47.1%). Ninety five percent of all motor vehicle offences were perpetrated by males. A considerable number of motorists drive without licenses (23.6%). Few road users ignored the traffic signs and regulations (5.7%). Speeding (6.9%), overloading (5.1%), not wearing belt (4.3%) and cell phone use while driving (2.5%), were noted. More stringent measures and educational campaigns on road safety awareness need to be reinforced.