The Gauteng Traffic Police is appealing to motorists to drive with caution on Gauteng roads following a major crash that claimed about eight lives on the N1 North Freeway recently. The accident occurred at the Kings Highway Bridge, opposite the CSIR in Gauteng after a Toyota Quantum and a Sedan BMW 3 series collided and side swapped.

According to preliminary reports, the BMW was travelling in the second lane from the left when the minibus crashed into the rear of the BMW driving in the same direction. The minibus overturned and rolled several times resulting in eight people losing their lives while five people sustained serious injuries. All casualties were recorded from the minibus.

Investigations into the crash that led to the major loss of lives are currently underway. The Gauteng Traffic Police has urged drivers to exercise caution on the roads.

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“The Gauteng Traffic Police calls upon motorists to drive with caution following a high number of fatal crashes recorded in recent times,” said Sello Maremane, Gauteng Traffic Police spokesperson.

“It is concerning that most of these fatal crashes resulting in major loss of lives are due to drunk driving, unsafe overtaking, excessive speeding and passenger overloading, amongst others. The Gauteng Traffic Police will continue to conduct various road safety education and operations in the province to reduce road accidents.

“The Gauteng Traffic Police would like to extend condolences to the families and friends who lost their loved ones and wish a speedy recovery to all those who are receiving medical treatment due to injuries sustained during the accident,’’ added Maremane.

Driver arrested for drunk driving after the breathalyzer recorded an alcohol limit of 0.57. #OkaeMolao pic.twitter.com/cDSbifVgTk

— GP Department of Community Safety (@GP_CommSafety) July 3, 2021