THE death toll in a head-on collision involving a truck and bus on the notorious N8 road outside Bloemfontein, Free State, has risen to eight.
This was according to Hillary Mophethe, spokeswoman for the provincial Department of Police, Roads and Transport.
Mophethe said eight people died in the collision on Thursday, 10 November, and preliminary investigations revealed that the truck driver was overtaking the bus when he noticed an oncoming vehicle.
“In an attempt to avoid a head-on collision, he swayed the truck towards the left lane and crashed into the front right side of the bus,” said Mophethe.
It was reported that three passengers were critically injured, 19 sustained moderate injuries while 32 had minor injuries. About 22 passengers were taken to different hospitals around the area.
Department MEC William Bulwane conveyed condolences to families who lost their loved ones, and wished a speedy recovery to all those who were left injured.
“I urge road users to respect the rules of the road and help us curb crashes and fatalities. Road safety starts with all of us. Let us take responsibility and save lives.”
