In the early hours of Wednesday morning, a devastating accident unfolded on the N3 Durban-bound highway near Ashburton, resulting in the tragic loss of two lives and injuries to two other individuals. The scene, described as horrific, involved multiple vehicles and left authorities scrambling to manage the aftermath.
According to reports, a taxi traveling northbound on the N3 lost control, veering across the center median. The taxi collided head-on with a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction before breaking through the highway barrier. After the collision, the taxi plunged down an embankment, rolling several times before coming to a stop.
Emergency services, including ALS Paramedics, were quickly dispatched to the scene. Upon arrival, paramedics were met with the grim task of confirming that two individuals had tragically lost their lives due to the severity of the impact. Two other passengers sustained various injuries, ranging from moderate to critical, and were treated on-site before being transported to nearby hospitals for further medical attention.https://twitter.com/MDNnewss/status/1836348048064090421?s=19
The exact cause of the accident remains under investigation. Authorities are working to determine whether speed, mechanical failure, or driver error contributed to the taxi’s loss of control. However, the dangerous combination of nighttime driving and wet or slippery road conditions is being considered as a possible factor.
Traffic on the N3 was significantly affected throughout the morning as emergency responders worked to clear the wreckage and manage the traffic flow. Motorists were advised to seek alternative routes, as lanes remained closed for several hours while the authorities conducted a thorough investigation.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and cautious driving, particularly during hazardous conditions. South Africa’s roads continue to witness a high number of fatalities, with accidents involving public transport vehicles such as taxis remaining a significant concern.
The identities of the deceased have not yet been released, pending the notification of their families. Further updates are expected as investigations continue.