Brake failure under investigation after truck crash on Christiaan de Wet Road
Authorities are investigating possible brake failure after a truck lost control and blocked a major Roodepoort intersection during peak traffic.
Authorities are investigating possible mechanical failure following a truck crash at the intersection of Christiaan de Wet and Wilgerood Road on Wednesday afternoon, July 23.
The accident, which occurred shortly after 14:00, brought traffic to a standstill during peak-hour congestion. The truck came to a halt facing oncoming traffic, blocking both lanes and creating a major obstruction.
The Roodepoort Northsider was on the scene and spoke to the driver, Siyabonga Ndlovu, who appeared visibly shaken. According to Ndlovu, he was travelling downhill on Wilgerood Road when the truck began losing air pressure in its braking system.
• Read the initial article here: Truck crash at Christiaan de Wet intersection causes major delays
“I stopped at the traffic light and tried to pump air into the braking system, but the brakes gave in completely, causing the truck to roll into the busy Christiaan de Wet Road,” he said.
On its descent, the truck also struck and damaged a municipal dustbin. Fortunately, no other vehicles were involved and no injuries were reported.
JMPD officers managed the scene by redirecting traffic and placing cones on the affected lanes. Tow trucks were called in to remove the vehicle and clear the intersection.
While no official cause has been confirmed, investigators are expected to examine the truck’s braking system and maintenance records to determine whether mechanical failure was to blame. The outcome of the investigation will likely raise further questions around roadworthiness and heavy vehicle safety on the city’s steep roads.
