Durban, South Africa — A tragic multi-vehicle collision on the N3 highway near the Mariannhill Toll Plaza has claimed the life of a woman and left several others injured, causing major traffic disruptions west of Durban on Wednesday morning.
According to the Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI), emergency response teams, recovery crews, and investigators remain at the crash scene as authorities work to clear the roadway and determine the circumstances that led to the devastating incident. Officials have not yet confirmed when both carriageways of the busy transport route will fully reopen.
Preliminary findings indicate that a truck traveling toward Durban collided with a light delivery vehicle from behind. The impact reportedly caused the truck driver to lose control, sending the heavy vehicle across the median into the opposing carriageway. The truck then overturned and collided head-on with a passenger vehicle.
A woman believed to be in her 30s died at the scene after the violent impact. Several other individuals sustained injuries and were treated by emergency medical personnel before being transported for further care. Authorities have not yet released the identities of those involved, pending notification of family members.
The collision also involved a fourth vehicle and resulted in significant debris being scattered across the highway. Recovery efforts have been further complicated by a large quantity of corn spilled from the truck, creating hazardous conditions and delaying the reopening of affected lanes.
RTI spokesperson Sindi Msimang stated that it is still too early to estimate when normal traffic flow will resume. Cleanup operations, vehicle recovery efforts, and a detailed investigation remain ongoing.
Traffic officials are directing motorists through designated diversion routes and advising travelers to expect substantial delays. Drivers are encouraged to seek alternative routes and exercise caution when approaching the affected area.
The fatal crash has once again drawn attention to the risks associated with heavy vehicle traffic on the N3, one of South Africa’s busiest freight and commuter corridors. Investigators continue to examine the incident to determine the factors that caused the truck to lose control.
Disclaimer: This report is based on information released by traffic authorities and emergency services at the time of publication. Details may change as the investigation progresses. Information regarding victims and injuries remains preliminary until officially confirmed by authorities.