A devastating accident on the N3 highway in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, on 5 December 2024, tragically claimed the lives of two drivers and left numerous others injured. The horrific collision involved multiple buses, trucks, and cars, creating a chaotic and deadly scene. Emergency responders arrived to find the wreckage, which included two trucks and a full bus that had collided in a rear-end crash, with both vehicles catching fire on impact.
The victims, identified as the bus and truck drivers, succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Meanwhile, at least 20 individuals were treated for a range of injuries, with some requiring further medical attention. The road was closed for hours as authorities worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the cause of the crash.
The accident has sparked outrage among many South Africans, with a significant number blaming reckless driving by truck operators for the tragedy. Public calls have erupted for stricter regulations and enforcement, demanding that truck drivers adhere to safety protocols to prevent such accidents in the future.
As the investigation continues, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers on South Africa’s busy highways, and the need for improved road safety measures to protect all road users.
