A tense moment unfolded on the N10 entering Cradock earlier this morning when a bakkie driver was forced into emergency evasive action after a truck, believed to have suffered brake failure, came hurtling down the route in the oncoming lane.
Video footage of the incident shows the truck moving downhill while occupying the incorrect lane as it approaches a bend into town. The driver can be seen flashing headlights repeatedly, a clear attempt to warn oncoming motorists that the vehicle was out of control.
As the situation develops, a bakkie appears in the truck’s direct path. With very little time to react, the bakkie driver quickly realises the danger and immediately starts reversing in an attempt to clear the lane and avoid a head-on collision.
The manoeuvre proves critical. The truck continues advancing at speed before passing the bakkie by a very narrow margin. The near miss leaves very little room for error, and the footage highlights just how quickly the situation could have turned into a serious crash.
Fortunately, the bakkie driver’s fast reaction, combined with awareness of the danger unfolding ahead, prevented what could have been a devastating impact. No collision was recorded.
The exact cause of the incident has not yet been officially confirmed, but the truck is widely believed to have experienced brake failure while descending into Cradock.
The N10 stretch entering Cradock has developed a reputation among drivers for runaway truck incidents and serious crashes over the years. The steep descent into town continues to raise concerns within the transport community, especially for heavy vehicles under load.
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