Cape Town - A couple was rushed to hospital when their vehicle collided with a truck on the N1 near Touws River early on Thursday.
Johan, 65, and Anneline Lombaard, 62, were driving along the national road around midnight when they collided with the back of the truck.
ER24 spokesman Russel Meiring said the couple was rushed to Mediclinic Worcester but the driver of the truck was not injured. Rescue services had used the Jaws of Life to free the couple from the wreck.
Provincial traffic chief Kenny Africa said the cause of the collision was unknown.
One lane had been closed to traffic and was opened at around 3am, he said.
“Drivers should ensure that they get enough sleep before embarking on long-distance drives. They should also take regular breaks to prevent fatigue,” said Africa.
Sunè Kilian, nursing manager at the hospital, said Johan was in a critical condition while Anneline’s condition had stabilised.
Meanwhile, Transport MEC Donald Grant said there had been a decrease in the number of pedestrian fatalities so far this month compared to the same period last year.
From December 1 to 14 last year, 57 had died. This year, the figure decreased to 49.
“With traffic set to increase as the festive season continues, I urge all motorists to be extra mindful of pedestrians, particularly at night when many are likely to have consumed alcohol.
“Pedestrians are also urged to be highly visible to motorists at all times, as well as to steer clear of pedestrian no-go areas, namely highways, where it is not only dangerous for pedestrians to walk, but also illegal,” said Grant.
Cape Times