Four killed after VW Polo collides with truck on N1 near Mokopane

Four people died in a collision between a Volkswagen Polo and a Scania truck on the N1 northbound near Mokopane in the early hours of Friday, the Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety said.

When and where it happened

The department said the accident occurred at approximately 5:39am on Friday between the Sasol Garage and the Zebediela Weighbridge on the N1 northbound.

What happened and casualties

The collision involved a Volkswagen Polo and a Scania truck. Three men and one woman, all occupants of the Polo, were declared dead at the scene.

Possible cause and response

“Preliminary information suggests that driver fatigue may have contributed to the crash,” the department said, while noting that the precise cause of the collision remains under investigation.

Emergency personnel and law enforcement officers responded to the scene, where the victims were declared dead. The department praised the first responders, saying it “commends the swift response and professionalism demonstrated by all emergency services and law enforcement agencies on the scene, including the South African Police Service (SAPS), Traffic Police, Emergency Medical Services (EMS), the Forensic Pathology Services team and other role players”.

Traffic and safety appeal

Authorities confirmed that traffic continued to flow along the route and said, “There is currently no traffic disruption, and the road remains open to traffic. However, motorists are urged to exercise caution, reduce speed and obey the instructions of traffic officials when travelling through the area,” the department said.

The department extended condolences to the families of the deceased and reiterated a safety message: “The Limpopo Department of Transport and Community Safety once again appeals to all motorists, particularly those travelling long distances, to ensure that they are well rested before driving and to take regular breaks in order to prevent fatigue-related crashes,” the statement said.