N3 Multi-vehicle Accident Forces Road Closure, Truck Loses Control and Crashes Into 20 Vehicles

• The N3 northbound and southbound lanes near Pietermaritzburg have been closed following a multi-vehicle accident
• According to the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), a truck lost control and crashed into approximately 20 vehicles
• The RTI has advised motorists to avoid the area and find alternative routes as emergency services work on the scene

Briefly News journalist Byron Pillay has dedicated a decade to reporting on the South African political landscape, crime, and social issues. He spent 10 years working for the Northern Natal Courier before transitioning to online journalism.

KWAZULU-NATAL – A multi-vehicle accident on the N3 has forced the closure of both the northbound and southbound lanes.

The crash, which happened on the stretch of road near Peace Valley in Pietermaritzburg, has left several people injured, but the exact number cannot be confirmed yet.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes to avoid any delays.

Read also

Gauteng MEC warns that unroadworthy vehicles will be impounded, Mzansi wants taxis targeted first

What caused the accident?

According to the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), the crash was caused by a truck that lost control on the N3. It then ploughed into about 20 other vehicles.

RTI spokesperson Sindi Msimang explained that emergency services were currently on scene, and so it was difficult to determine the extent of injuries or whether there were any fatalities.

"We just want to advise the road users to divert on eShongweni should they come towards Pietermaritzburg. If they are going towards Durban, they can use Cato Ridge as an alternative route,” Msimang said.

*This is a developing story and will be updated as more information is made available.

Source: Briefly News