18 Killed In Multi-Vehicle Crash On N3

Eighteen people have died in a multi-vehicle collision on the N3 between Van Reenen and Tugela Plaza.

A truck, minibus, and light motor vehicle collided, killing 13 adults and five children. One baby was seriously injured.

The crash occurred in rainy and misty conditions. Following this incident, the Road Traffic Management Corporation (RTMC) has urged drivers to be extra cautious when driving in rainy weather.

"Members of the National Traffic Police and the South African Police Service worked the whole night to clear the scene and provide assistance to the affected road users. The road was eventually opened this morning after almost 10 hours," the RTMC said on Tuesday, SA News reported.

Crash investigators from the RTMC are at the scene to determine the cause of the crash.

The South African Weather Service has issued a warning for severe weather in some areas, and drivers are advised to slow down, keep a safe distance and use their headlights. The RTMC also recommended avoiding nighttime travel, as most fatal crashes tend to happen during this time.

Last week, RTMC announced plans to help reduce road collisions and fatalities in the Eastern Cape as holidaymakers prepare to return to cities and workplaces.

Analysis of fatal crash statistics since the beginning of the festive season shows that the Amathole District in the Eastern Cape is among the top ten areas in the country with high numbers of crashes and fatalities, the RTMC said at that time.

The incident took place after the KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs (CoGTA), Thulasizwe Buthelezi, put disaster management teams on high alert. The SAWS issued a Level 8 warning for disruptive rainfall for large parts of the province from Jan. 6 to Jan. 8.

At that time, the SAWS forecasts scattered (60%) and widespread (80%) showers and thunderstorms in central and eastern South Africa, including the North West, Free State and southern parts of Mpumalanga and Gauteng.

Rainfall is expected to increase, ranging from 50mm to 70mm. This could lead to road flooding, slippery surfaces, and flash floods. Motorists are advised to use headlights and drive slowly in these conditions.