Berowra: Major Multi-Vehicle Crash Causes Delays on M1 Pacific Motorway

Screenshot added 9/8/2024:

Ross Adler recounts the moments a Blue Holden Cruze comes airborne and lands in the opposing carriageway.

Original Story 25/7/2024:

A multi-vehicle crash on the M1 Pacific Motorway at Berowra caused significant traffic disruptions and resulted in two drivers being hospitalised. The incident occurred around 6PM on Thursday, 25 July 2024, prompting an extensive emergency response.

According to the Ku-Ring-Gai Police Area Command, the collision involved five vehicles. A male driver of a blue sedan was airlifted to hospital in a serious but stable condition. Meanwhile, a female driver of a black sedan was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene and later transported to the hospital, also in stable condition. Both drivers are expected to undergo mandatory testing, as per standard procedures.

The crash scene quickly attracted more paramedics who assessed occupants of the other vehicles involved. Fortunately, they did not require further medical treatment. Police established a crime scene and started  an investigation. Authorities are appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage to contact the Ku-Ring-Gai police or Crime Stoppers.

In response to the incident, traffic management measures were implemented. Initial reports indicated that the northbound lanes were closed to allow a rescue helicopter to land and transport the injured male driver. The southbound lanes were also temporarily closed to allow the helicopter to depart. By 9pm, traffic was allowed to pass the crash site, but not heavy vehicles. Motorists were advised via social media to expect delays and consider alternative routes, such the Northbound off-ramp to Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Rd, Pacific Hwy, M1 Pacific Mwy on-ramp at Berowra.

At 12:40am Friday, truck drivers Rhys Putnam, Craig Angus and Bob Poret said on social media they had been parked up for 5 hours, and have been informed it will still be a few more hours before they can move again. Craig Angus said “just gotta wait until crash [investigation] unit has finished”, he also said “kms of trucks parked up all 3 lanes back”.

Matt Deller said at 1:10am “the vehicles right near [the front] were let through at the beginning but everyone else is still there. My driver said there’s around 300 trucks still banked up waiting.”

You can join the truck driver’s conversation on the M1 Pacific Motorway Post.

For the latest updates, visit www.livetraffic.com

Public Reaction to the Incident

Social media users expressed a mix of concern, frustration, and gratitude regarding the incident and traffic disruptions.

One user wrote, “Thanks to all the emergency services for their quick response. Hope everyone is okay.” Another added, “Kudos to the traffic managers for trying to keep things moving. Must be a tough job tonight.”

However, frustration was also evident among commuters caught in the delays. “Stuck in traffic for over an hour now. This is a nightmare,” one commenter said. Another echoed this, stating, “Wish there was a better way to handle these situations. It’s really frustrating.”

Amid the concerns, some commenters shared their experiences and offered advice. “Saw the helicopter landing. Quite a sight, but glad they’re getting the help they need,” one person noted. Another said, “If you can, avoid the M1 tonight. Take Pacific Highway or Ku-Ring-Gai Chase Road. It’s a mess out here.”