Lions River, KwaZulu-Natal – December 1, 2025 – A truck carrying a six-metre container overturned on the northbound carriageway of the N3 highway near Lions River on Monday afternoon, leading to a full closure of the affected lane and significant traffic delays.
The incident took place on a right-hand curve along the route, which connects Durban to Johannesburg. According to details captured on video, the truck was traveling at a reduced speed when it approached the bend. As it navigated the turn, the left-side axles lifted off the roadway, causing the container to lean sharply to the right. The trailer’s instability led to a complete flip onto its side, with the kingpin connection holding firm and pulling the cab section along. The vehicle ultimately came to rest across one of the northbound lanes on its right-hand side.
The overturn occurred moments after another truck had passed through the same section of the road. A tanker truck following closely behind managed to stop in a controlled manner just metres from the scene, averting a potential secondary collision.
Emergency services responded promptly to the site, closing the Johannesburg-bound carriageway to facilitate recovery operations. Officials reported a diesel spillage from the vehicle, which has since been contained to prevent environmental impact or further hazards. Crews are working to upright and remove the truck, with the road expected to remain closed until the surface is cleared and deemed safe for travel.
The load inside the container shifted during the maneuver, contributing to the loss of stability that precipitated the flip. No immediate details on the driver’s condition have been released by authorities.
The closure has resulted in heavy backups for northbound traffic, with motorists advised to anticipate delays and consider alternative routes such as the R617 via Howick or other local detours. The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Transport has urged drivers to exercise caution on the N3, particularly in curved sections prone to such incidents.
Recovery efforts continue, and updates on the road’s reopening will be provided as they become available. This event underscores ongoing challenges with heavy vehicle stability on South Africa’s key freight corridors.
