Traffic chaos on the N3 as a truck ploughs into over a dozen vehicles. Image: IOL.
(The Post News)- At least 17 people were injured in a 20-vehicle crash, including several trucks and light vehicles, on the N3 highway near Peacevale early on Thursday, 4 September 2025 morning.
ALS paramedics reported that the accident happened shortly after 7:30 am on the Pietermaritzburg-bound carriageway of the N3. “Paramedics received numerous calls about a major crash involving several trucks and light motor vehicles,” they said.
Road Traffic Inspectorate (RTI) spokesperson Sindi Msimang confirmed that emergency teams were on site and continuing to assess the full scale of the crash. “This accident was caused by a truck that lost control and collided with vehicles on the northbound side and landed on the southbound side and also collided with vehicles on that side too. The total number of vehicles is about 20,” said Msimang.
Upon arrival, paramedics were confronted with what was described as “chaos and carnage” after a fully loaded truck allegedly lost control and crashed into several vehicles. The RTI spokesperson further noted that the severity of the injuries in the N3 crash has not yet been determined.
“At this stage, we cannot confirm the condition of the injured, as emergency services are still attending to the scene. We urge motorists heading towards Pietermaritzburg to divert via eShongweni, while those travelling towards Durban can use Cato Ridge as an alternative route,” Msimang said. Authorities have urged motorists to avoid the area and use alternative routes.
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