1,502 Died on SA Roads Last December: Why Students Are Switching to Verified Carpooling - CrabaRide

Last December, South Africa’s roads claimed 1,502 lives—a staggering statistic that weighs heavily on every family as the festive season approaches[1]. For students heading home from universities in Cape Town, Joburg, or Durban, the fear of becoming another number is all too real. Overcrowded taxis, fatigued long-distance drivers, and unverified “hike” offers on social media add to the risk.

But a shift is happening. More students are turning to verified carpooling platforms like CrabaRide to ensure they get home safely, affordably, and with peace of mind.

The Danger of the "Hike"

Informal hiking spots and unverified lift groups on Facebook or WhatsApp have long been the go-to for students on a budget. However, the risks are high: unsafe vehicles, unvetted drivers, and zero accountability if something goes wrong. With road fatalities spiking every December, relying on luck is no longer an option.

Why Verified Carpooling is Safer

CrabaRide and similar platforms are changing the game by introducing accountability to the traditional lift club:

• Verified Drivers: ID and license checks mean you know exactly who you’re getting in the car with.
• Vehicle Safety: Roadworthy checks and vehicle descriptions help ensure you’re not stepping into an unsafe car.
• Ratings & Reviews: See what other students say about their trip before you book.
• Trackable Trips: Share your live location with family so they know you’re safe on the road.

Students Leading the Way

It’s not just about safety—it’s about community. Students are organizing university-specific lift clubs, sharing rides from campus to hometowns like Polokwane, East London, and George. By pooling resources, they save money on expensive bus tickets and avoid the chaos of peak-season taxi ranks.

As we head into December 2025, let’s make safety the priority. Don’t risk the "hike." Choose verified, choose safe, and arrive alive.

Get started on Crab a Ride today: online at https://crabaride.co.za or directly via WhatsApp (+27713638315).