UPDATE: N3 highway towards Durban near Van Reenen reopened after fatal accident

JOHANNESBURG - The N3 highway towards Durban has been reopened near Van Reenen's Pass.  

The major route was forced to close following a multi-vehicle crash on Monday night that killed eighteen people.  

Authorities have confirmed that five children were amongst those who died in the crash involving a taxi, truck, and light motor vehicle.  

Poor weather conditions, including heavy mist and rain, have been negatively impacting driving ability on the route.  

The N3 Toll Concession said motorists should exercise caution following the reopening of the route.  

“Adjust your driving style to the prevailing conditions, reduce speed, keep your headlights turned on, don’t overtake unless it is safe to do so, maintain safe following distances, and remember to always obey the rules of the road and instructions from law enforcement officials,” said spokesperson Thania Dhoogra.