NEW IMAGES: Campervan Crash Shuts Down Pacific Highway at Karuah

25 October 2024

A single-vehicle crash involving a motorhome on the Pacific Highway at Karuah caused significant delays this morning, with the southbound lanes temporarily closed as emergency services attended the scene.

The accident occurred around 8:40 am near Tarean Road, with witnesses reporting the motorhome had overturned, scattering debris across the road and into nearby bushland. Emergency services, including the NSW Ambulance, NSW Police Force, Fire and Rescue NSW, and several Rural Fire Service (RFS) units, rushed to the scene.

Paramedics from NSW Ambulance stabilised the driver before he was extricated from the wreckage by Fire and Rescue NSW Tea Gardens crew, assisted by the SES Stroud Unit. The driver was transported to John Hunter Hospital in stable condition. NSW Police interviewed witnesses as part of their ongoing investigation into the crash.

“RFS teams from Karuah and Medowie provided fire and scene protection throughout the rescue,” said a spokesperson from the Karuah Rural Fire Brigade. “We’re thankful that everyone worked together efficiently.”

The southbound lanes of the highway remained closed for several hours, causing significant traffic disruptions, with vehicles diverted via Karuah. One lane was reopened around midday, but intermittent closures continued as authorities worked to clear the wreckage and debris.

Motorists were urged to allow extra time for their journeys, as clean-up operations continued into the afternoon.

Locals took to social media, sharing their thoughts on the incident. “It looked awful going past,” wrote one witness, while another added, “Glad the person was saved—it was an absolute mess.”

By the end of the day, traffic flow had mostly returned to normal, though the sight of the wreckage was a stark reminder of the dangers on the road. Authorities are urging drivers to remain vigilant and follow the directions of emergency personnel in such situations.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.