Truck driver who ploughed into CT bridge to make first court appearance
The incident caused havoc on Friday, as motorists faced lengthy delays, struggling to get out of the Cape Town CBD for most of the day.
Traffic officers at the scene of a crash near Woodstock, Cape Town where a truck lost its load after it ploughed into the Lower Church bridge near Woodstock on 11 October 2024. Picture: Supplied
CAPE TOWN - A truck driver who ploughed into the Lower Church Street bridge on the N1 highway is expected to make his first court appearance on Tuesday.
The incident caused havoc on Friday, as motorists faced lengthy delays, struggling to get out of the Cape Town CBD for most of the day.
The truck has been impounded and the driver faces a charge of reckless and negligent driving.
City Mayco Member for Safety and Security JP Smith said the infrastructure, economic, and emotional damage caused by one person's actions could not be tolerated.
"I trust that the court will take these factors into account when dealing with this case. We understand that the trucking industry is an important cog in our economy, but there is a responsibility to ensure that drivers and vehicles are fit for purpose."
Work is still underway to determine the extent of the damage to the bridge.
Smith said he would be liaising with the relevant city departments to ensure that a claim for damages was instituted against the owner of the truck.