An articulated truck and a sedan collided head-on on the R23 between Standerton and Perdekop today (July 13), claiming the lives of five people.

The sedan was travelling from Perdekop to Standerton and the truck was moving in the opposite direction.

The driver and three passengers from the sedan were declared dead on the scene. Another passenger who sustained serious injuries was rushed to Standerton Provincial Hospital for medical treatment, but later succumbed to injuries.

The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation.

However, preliminary indications suggest that dangerous overtaking may have been a contributing factor.

The Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, has conveyed condolences to the bereaved families.

“The number of fatal crashes on the R23 is a huge concern. This stretch of road is becoming a death trap and it means we must do more to enforce the law on the R23 and other problematic routes.

“Motorists must also play their part by driving safely and obeying the rules of the road,” said MEC Macie.

The MEC has reiterated his call to law enforcement officers at all levels to act decisively against any form of recklessness and disregard for traffic regulations by drivers.

The Department continues to urge all road users to adhere to the rules of the road, and exercise extreme caution, especially on the R23.

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