A fatal road accident on the N4 highway between Matsulu and Mbombela in Mpumalanga has left three people dead and another injured in the early hours of Saturday morning, 6 September 2025. The devastating crash involved an articulated truck and a VW Polo sedan, bringing traffic to a standstill and sparking renewed calls for motorists to exercise extreme caution on this busy stretch of road.
The Fatal Crash
According to initial reports, the two vehicles collided in the pre-dawn hours while travelling in opposite directions. The impact was so severe that three occupants of the sedan died on the scene, while another sustained serious injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent medical care. Emergency services, including paramedics, fire personnel, and traffic police, responded swiftly but were unable to save the victims’ lives.
Authorities are still investigating the exact cause of the crash, but preliminary findings suggest that the ongoing road construction along the N4 may have contributed to the hazardous conditions. Reduced lanes, uneven surfaces, and heavy vehicle movement in the area are believed to have increased the risks faced by motorists travelling through the construction zone.
Road Safety Concerns on the N4
The N4 is a crucial route linking Mpumalanga with other provinces and serving as a major economic artery for freight transport. However, in recent months it has also become notorious for frequent accidents, many of them fatal. The stretch between Matsulu and Mbombela, in particular, has been flagged as a high-risk area due to both traffic congestion and construction activities.
Officials from the Mpumalanga Department of Community Safety have once again urged motorists to slow down, remain vigilant, and observe all road signs, particularly in construction zones. Speeding, fatigue, and reckless overtaking have been highlighted as common factors contributing to crashes in the province.
Authorities Appeal for Caution
In a statement following the incident, provincial traffic authorities emphasized the need for heightened awareness when navigating construction areas. “We are urging motorists using the N4 to exercise patience and caution. Ongoing roadworks are necessary for long-term improvements, but they do create temporary challenges that require drivers to be extra alert,” a spokesperson said.
Law enforcement officials have also promised increased visibility along the N4, especially during peak travel hours and weekends when traffic volumes are at their highest.
Community in Mourning
The news of the accident has left the Mbombela community in shock. Families of the victims are devastated, and community leaders have expressed their condolences while calling for stronger road safety campaigns. The injured survivor remains in hospital under close medical supervision.
As investigations continue, this tragedy serves as yet another stark reminder of the dangers on South African roads. Motorists are encouraged not only to obey traffic laws but also to adapt their driving to prevailing road and weather conditions.
The N4 remains open to traffic, but authorities warn that construction work will continue for several weeks. Drivers are strongly advised to allow extra travel time, reduce speed, and stay alert in order to prevent further loss of life.
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