A fatal accident on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway near Bentong has caused significant traffic congestion, with motorists slowing down to look at the wreckage. The incident, which occurred on March 31, involved a three-tonne lorry that veered into the opposite lane and crashed into four other vehicles, claiming three lives and injuring four others.
The victims, a 61-year-old woman, her 34-year-old daughter, and her 29-year-old son, were traveling in a Honda Accord when the crash occurred. They died at the scene due to the severity of the impact. Four others, who were in the other vehicles involved, sustained injuries.
According to Bentong District Police Chief Superintendent Zaiham Mohd Kahar, the lorry's wreckage remains on the road shoulder, but it is not obstructing traffic. However, he noted that congestion is being caused by motorists slowing down to observe the accident site rather than any actual road blockage.
"Traffic will be smooth if road users choose to continue driving as usual. There is no traffic obstruction along the expressway, but the congestion is only a result of those choosing to slow down their vehicles," he said in a statement to the media.
He urged motorists to maintain normal driving speeds when passing the accident site to prevent unnecessary delays.
The lorry driver, a 52-year-old man, has been remanded for four days to assist with police investigations. Authorities are working to determine the cause of the accident, including whether negligence, mechanical failure, or other factors played a role in the crash.
Accidents on the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Expressway are not uncommon due to its high traffic volume and winding terrain. Authorities often remind drivers to exercise caution, especially when navigating sharp bends and overtaking large vehicles.
In light of this tragic accident, road safety experts are once again urging motorists to stay alert, avoid distractions, and adhere to speed limits. They also emphasize the importance of avoiding "rubbernecking," a common behavior where drivers slow down to observe accidents, often leading to secondary traffic jams and increasing the risk of further incidents.
Social media has been flooded with comments from netizens expressing condolences for the victims and frustration at the traffic congestion caused by curious motorists. Many have also called for stricter regulations on heavy vehicles and improved enforcement to prevent similar tragedies.
Investigations into the accident are ongoing, and further updates are expected in the coming days. Meanwhile, authorities continue to advise drivers to remain focused on the road and avoid actions that could contribute to unnecessary traffic congestion or safety hazards.
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