Dashcam footage from a truck has revealed the terrifying moments leading up to a fatal head-on collision that killed seven people on the M17 between Motherwell and KwaZakhele on Sunday afternoon.
The crash, which occurred at around 3pm, involved a Renault carrying seven occupants and a manganese truck travelling in the opposite direction.
In the footage, the Renault can be seen suddenly drifting out of its lane before moving directly into the path of the oncoming truck. Within seconds, the situation turns fatal as the vehicle collides head-on with the truck, leaving no time for the truck driver to avoid the impact.
All seven occupants of the Renault, three men and four women, were declared dead at the scene.
Eastern Cape traffic spokesperson Unathi Binqose confirmed the details of the crash, stating that the cause is still under investigation.
A case of culpable homicide has been opened at Swartkops SAPS.
Eastern Cape Transport MEC Xolile Nqatha has since expressed condolences to the grieving families, describing the incident as a devastating loss of life.
Authorities are expected to use the dashcam footage as part of their investigation to establish exactly what caused the Renault to leave its lane.
The incident once again highlights the dangers of losing control or focus on the road, especially on routes shared with heavy-duty trucks where there is very little room for error.
Motorists travelling along the M17 have been urged to remain cautious, stay within their lanes, and avoid risky behaviour that could lead to similar tragedies.
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