The death toll of a horrific truck and bus accident on the N8, near Botshabelo in the Free State, increased to seven, the Free State police, roads and transport department said on Thursday.
Department spokesperson Hillary Mophethe said the Interstate bus and a Sedaka Logistics truck collided just before 07:00.
“It is alleged the truck driver overtook the bus when he noticed an oncoming vehicle.
“In an attempt to avoid a head-on collision, he swayed the truck toward the left lane and crashed into the front right of the bus, resulting in this horrendous accident,” she said.
Read also: Six people killed in bus and truck head-on collision on N8 near Botshabelo
She added that 62 passengers suffered critical to minor injuries.
Mophethe said 22 people were transported to Botshabelo Hospital, nine to Moroka Hospital, and 10 critically and moderately injured people were transported to Pelonomi Hospital.
One person, who was critically injured, was transported to Life Rosepark Hospital.
The MEC, William Bulwane, extended condolences to the families who had lost their loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to all the injured.
“I wish to urge all road users to please respect the rules of the road and help us curb road crashes and fatalities on our roads. Road safety starts with each one of us. Let us take that responsibility and save lives,” Bulwane said.
