Eighteen Lives Lost in Multi-Vehicle Collision on N3
KwaZulu-Natal – The Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has once again urged motorists to exercise extreme caution when driving in rainy conditions following a tragic multi-vehicle collision on the N3 between Van Reenen and Tugela Plaza that claimed 18 lives.
The crash, involving a truck, a minibus, and a light motor vehicle, resulted in the deaths of 13 adults and five children. One baby sustained serious injuries. The incident occurred amid rainy and misty conditions, which contributed to the severity of the accident.
“National Traffic Police and the South African Police Service worked overnight to clear the scene and assist affected road users. The road was reopened after nearly 10 hours,” the RTMC said in a statement on Tuesday.
Crash investigators from the RTMC are on-site working to determine the exact cause of the collision.
The South African Weather Service has issued warnings for severe weather in certain areas, and motorists are urged to reduce speed, maintain a greater following distance, and keep headlights on.
“Drivers are also advised to avoid traveling at night, as data shows that most fatal crashes occur during this time,” the RTMC added