Minister of Transport statement on the N12 highway multi-vehicle crash
Transport Minister Ms. Dipuo Peters this afternoon visited the scene of the multi-vehicle crash on the N12 Highway near Alberton. Minister Peters was taken on a walkabout of the crash scene and received a briefing from provincial and municipal authorities of both the cities of Johannesburg and Ekhurhuleni Metropolitans.
She was informed that at about 08:10 this morning an articulated truck joining the N12 from a feeder road rammed into steadily moving traffic heading towards the north.
The traffic authorities indicate that preliminary evidence gathered thus far suggests a mechanical failure (brake failure) to be the cause of the horrific crash.
They told the Minister that at least 49 vehicles appear to have been involved, one way or the other, in the crash. Two people were unfortunately declared dead on the scene while two others reportedly later died in hospital. Many others sustained injuries.
At least two people had to be airlifted from the scene. Survivors have been admitted to various hospitals around Alberton and surrounding areas.
Minister Peters’ response
Minister Peters sends her sincere and heartfelt condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. She wishes speedy recovery to those who sustained injuries.
The Minister has called for a thorough investigation to be conducted immediately. She says should the truck be found to have been defective at the time of the crash, the owner should be charged alongside the driver.
"We have discovered in the past that some owners never concern themselves with the road worthiness or lack thereof of their fleet. Drivers are often made to drive for long distances on end in mechanically defective trucks.
I urge for the harshest possible punishment to be meted out against the offender's. The owner of the truck should be brought to book should it be absolutely ascertained that the truck was mechanically defective," says Minister Peters.
Minister Peters has called on labour unions within the transport sector rise in defence of truck drivers.
"Unions should protect the interests of truck drivers. Some often find themselves in vulnerable situations where their opinions regarding the wellness of a truck is of no significance to the owners. Owners must be brought to book for failing to maintain their fleet', says Minister Peters.
The Minister will engage provincial and municipal authorities concerned with a view to investigate the possibility of introducing by-laws to regulate the movement of heavy duty vehicles on selected routes within Gauteng. Similar engagements would be held with all the other provinces.
"This is more urgent than ever before. The cost to families and the economy is too high," concludes Minister Peters.
The Road Accident Fund will move in swiftly to assist affected families with burial arrangements, hospitalization and counselling.
Enquiries:
Tiyani Ponto-Rikhotso
Cell: 083 570 1275
