THOUGH the official Easter road death statistics are not immediately available, authorities say the roads were quiet on Friday and yesterday.

Arrive Alive spokesperson Ashraf Ismail says there's a hint of optimism this time around.

"The traffic is lower than that of last year. No major accidents have yet been reported since the fatal taxi crash that wiped out eight lives in the Free State on Thursday. By major accident, I mean fatalities of more than five passengers in one go.

"We will have the official figures next Wednesday as we're still gathering info from all the provinces," said Ismail.

He did however, point out that drinking and driving as well as public drinking accounted for most accidents. Joburg cops had by yesterday arrested more than 160 offenders. "Most of the accidents are without a doubt a result of excessive alcohol consumption, 65% to be exact," said Ismail.

Another major headache for traffic officers is the failure by motorists to buckle up.

"I don't think motorists will ever fully understand the importance of wearing their seat belts. Be it you are in the front or the back of the vehicle, it is important. A lot of fines have been issued on those offenses."

The busiest routes included the N3 South between Joburg and Durban, the N1 from Pretoria to Polokwane as well as the N1 south between Joburg and Mangaung towards the Cape.

"The N3 is still busy and that may drag on until Monday. The moody weather is also causing some worry."