A truck driver has been killed after losing control of his truck at the Hans Dettman Highway offramp from the M7 towards Pinetown on Monday morning.
ALS Paramedics responded to the crash and found the driver severely entrapped in the wreckage. Despite the efforts of emergency personnel, there was nothing that could be done to save him. He was declared deceased at the scene.
The crash happened at a section of the offramp known for its sharp bend, where vehicles, particularly heavy trucks, can quickly get into trouble if they approach at too high a speed.
The bend appears to catch some drivers out. By the time the sharp turn becomes apparent, there may be little room to safely reduce speed and negotiate it.
According to SA Trucker’s own crash reports, Monday’s fatality is the fourth truck crash reported at the same bend this year.
Previous crashes reported by SA Trucker occurred on 17 February, 29 July and 16 August, with Monday morning’s crash being the latest.
The incidents highlight the need for truck drivers using the M7 to Pinetown offramp to take extra care when approaching the Hans Dattman Road turn.
Heavy vehicles do not respond like cars when a driver suddenly needs to brake or change direction, particularly when carrying a heavy load. Entering the bend at a controlled speed gives drivers a much better chance of safely negotiating it.
Truck drivers are urged to reduce speed well before reaching the bend and approach the offramp with caution.
Monday’s crash is another tragic reminder that getting around a sharp bend safely starts before the bend itself.
The latest SA Trucking News straight to your inbox!
