Princes Freeway Werribee crash : A damaged expansion joint on a major Melbourne road is being blamed for traffic chaos on the city’s western outskirts this morning.
Drivers heading towards the city on the Princes Freeway at Werribee are still experiencing significant delays after the compromised road surface led to a truck rollover and a multi-vehicle crash.
Reports indicate that a metal plate covering the expansion joint became dislodged overnight, and around 4:20am, a truck travelling at 100km/h hit the plate and overturned.
Traffic Chaos on Melbourne’s Princes Freeway After Expansion Joint Fails
That crash subsequently led to a pile-up involving up to 10 vehicles, forcing the closure of several lanes near Duncans Road.
While one Melbourne-bound lane has since reopened, two lanes remain shut as crews investigate the scene and work to safely restore full traffic flow.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported.
Earlier in the day, commuters faced delays of over two hours on the freeway and nearby roads in Werribee and Wyndham Vale.
Truck Rollover and 10-Car Pile-Up Cause Major Delays Near Werribee
The delays have now slightly reduced, with drivers currently experiencing around an extra hour of travel time.
Motorists commuting between Geelong and Melbourne may save time by taking a detour through Bacchus Marsh and the Western Freeway.
Alternatively, travelers can bypass the traffic altogether by using V/Line trains on the Geelong line.
Drivers are being encouraged to remain patient, be considerate of local traffic, and adhere to all speed limits while passing through Werribee.
Authorities have stated that all lanes will be reopened once investigations and necessary repairs are finished and it is deemed safe.
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