N3 and Van Reenen’s Pass: Department stresses caution after accidents cause traffic chaos [VIDEO]

Van Reenen’s Pass has reopened on Thursday after two early-morning accidents.

The incidents, which occurred shortly before 7am, left both north and southbound lanes closed for more than an hour.

The result was a stream of vehicles snaking down the pass and heavy congestion following the reopening.

No serious injuries reported

The N3 has been a scene of carnage since the start of December with several fatal accidents, most notably one incident involving seven vehicles that claimed the life of a truck driver.   

No serious injuries or fatalities were reported from the two incidents on Thursday morning, but the office of KwaZulu-Natal’s (KZN) transport MEC Siboniso Duma reminded motorists to drive sensibly.

“It’s raining in most parts in KZN. We request motorists to approach the area with caution. We plead with motorists to be extra careful on the road and obey the rules,” stated department spokesperson Ndadezinhle Sibiya.

WATCH: N3 traffic backlog at Van Reenen’s Pass

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Chief Operating Officer of the N3 Toll Concession Thania Dhoogra also urged motorists to drive safely.

“More than 80% of all crashes on the N3 Toll Route are the result of human error, including driver negligence, distractions, speeding, recklessness, fatigue and aggressive driving style,” said Dhoogra.

“The consequences of these human errors are far-reaching and could be largely avoided by obeying traffic laws, paying attention, and driving responsibly — to save lives rather than a few minutes of your time,” she concluded.

Road safety campaign

The KZN transport department reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on motorists’ attitudes and vehicle compliance.

“Our message is very clear, we won’t tolerate reckless driving. You comply, or we send you to prison,” stated Sibiya.

The department will be focusing on:

• Arresting those driving under the influence of alcohol
• Focus on roadworthiness and overloading
• Focus on the detection of stolen vehicles
• Arrest those with illegal firearms and drugs
• Recovering unpaid fines

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