Central SA
N3 closed after multiple vehicle crash in Free State─── 16:29 Tue, 03 Jan 2023
![N3 closed after multiple vehicle crash in Free State N3 closed after multiple vehicle crash in Free State | News Article](https://oscar.ofm.co.za/img/8cc700b8-1439-45a7-a0c0-8436cfdecd75.jpg?crop=2,0,798,448)
The northbound and southbound lanes on the N3 highway have been closed after a serious multiple vehicle crash in the Free State.
According to Arrive Alive, the crash occurred between the Frankfort/Vrede interchange and Wilge Plaza shortly after midday on Tuesday, 3 January 2023.
"All lanes on the N3 Toll Route (both north- and southbound) in the vicinity are closed to traffic. Traffic is being stacked at the scene, while emergency services are attending to the numerous crash casualties," the AA said in a statement.
Details of the crash have not been made available yet. The N3 Toll Concession said on Twitter that three cars were involved in the accident. A stop-and-go system is still in progress on the northbound lanes.
Thania Dhoogra, operations manager of the N3 Toll Concession, said motorists are warned to expect extensive traffic disruption in the area.
"Motorists are urged to reduce speed and approach the area with caution."
Many holidaymakers have been making their way home today, with over 1000 cars per hour passing through Marianhill Toll Plaza, according to radio reports.
On Monday, almost 2000 vehicles per hour were travelling towards Gauteng.
"N3TC is expecting a further escalation in northbound traffic as many holidaymakers make their way home.
"As the route becomes busier, traffic congestion is extremely likely, increasing risks and the probability of unexpected delays," says Dhoogra.