Fatal R102 crash: Taxi driver had expired PDP, truck had worn tyres, preliminary investigation reveals

KwaZulu-Natal Transport MEC Siboniso Duma has called for criminal charges to be opened against both a taxi driver and a truck driver, along with the vehicle owners, following a horrific crash on the R102 near Isipingo, that claimed 11 lives on Thursday morning.

Duma, describing the incident as one of the province’s “painful moments”, said preliminary reports indicated that the truck driver had allegedly swerved his vehicle prior to the head-on crash with the taxi. 

Eleven passengers from the taxi died at the scene while eight others were critically injured including the taxi driver. 

ALS Paramedics Garrith Jamieson said the Jaws of Life were employed to extricate the taxi driver during a rescue operation that lasted three hours. He was taken to hospital in a critical condition.

In a statement, the transport department said preliminary findings include:

• The truck had worn-out tyres, which is illegal
• The taxi driver’s PrDP (Professional Driving Permit) had expired in 2023
• The taxi was overloaded with between 17 and 18 passengers

The department also confirmed that the injured patients were at various hospitals including Inkosi Albert Luthuli Hospital, Prince Mshiyeni Hospital and eThekwini Hospital.

Riona Gokool, DA KZN spokesperson on Transport, said the party is deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life in the crash.

“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families, friends and loved ones of those who have perished. We also extend our thoughts to the many people who have been injured and are currently receiving medical care.

“This tragedy again underscores the urgent need for decisive action to improve road safety across our province. The R102 has been the scene of recurring collisions, and the terrible loss of life this morning must serve as a stark reminder that current measures are not sufficient.”

Gokool called on all relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, transparent investigation into the factors that led to this collision.

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