A multi-vehicle collision occurred on Picton Road at Cataract, north of Wollongong, on Wednesday at approximately midday, involving a semi-trailer and multiple cars. The incident resulted in several hospitalizations and the closure of the road in both directions, which has since reopened. Emergency services responded to the scene, where an investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.
Incident Overview
The collision took place just after midday on Wednesday on Picton Road at Cataract, located north of Wollongong. The incident scene stretched over approximately 130 meters. It involved a semi-trailer and multiple cars, impacting a total of six cars according to Source 2's detailed account of a four-wheel-drive and five additional vehicles, while Source 1 reported five cars and a truck.
Sequence of Events
Preliminary reports indicate that a man driving a four-wheel-drive vehicle veered into the opposing lane. This action is currently being investigated as potentially related to a medical episode. A semi-trailer, traveling in the opposite direction, reportedly attempted to avoid the four-wheel-drive. The semi-trailer then clipped the four-wheel-drive, subsequently struck a guard rail, and jackknifed across the road before colliding with five additional vehicles.
Casualties and Medical Response
Thirteen individuals were assessed by paramedics at the scene. Multiple patients required hospital transport:
- Source 1 reported six individuals were hospitalized, while Source 2 stated five individuals required hospital transport, in addition to the truck driver taken for mandatory testing.
- One male driver sustained significant injuries and was airlifted to Liverpool Hospital. Source 1 identified this individual as a 44-year-old male, while Source 2 reported a 38-year-old male driver of one of the cars.
- Source 1 also reported that the wife of the 44-year-old driver was transported to Liverpool Hospital.
- Four other patients were transported by road to Wollongong Hospital with various injuries. Source 1 noted that some of these injuries were attributed to sun exposure at the scene.
- The male truck driver was extricated from the wreckage by Fire and Rescue NSW without apparent physical injury and was transported to a hospital for mandatory testing.
Road Status and Aftermath
Following the collision, Picton Road at Cataract was closed in both directions. The road has since reopened to traffic. Approximately 100 litres of diesel spilled at the scene. Specialist fire trucks were engaged in containment efforts, with the Rural Fire Service providing additional fire protection. Preliminary assessments indicated the spilled fuel did not pose an immediate threat to vehicles.
Investigation
Wollongong Police are conducting ongoing inquiries into the cause of the accident. Authorities have interviewed several individuals at the scene and intend to speak with additional witnesses as part of their investigation. Police have issued a general advisory for drivers to exercise caution, avoid distractions, and prioritize safety, particularly during the school holiday period.