A Fatal Accident on the A4 Near Rotterdam’s Beneluxtunnel
ROTTERDAM - A heartbreaking accident occurred on the A4 motorway near the Beneluxtunnel just after noon on March 25, 2025, which resulted in the death of a truck driver. The incident involved a truck transporting a load of three long steel pipes, which became loose during an emergency maneuver to avoid a possible collision with another vehicle.
Witnesses reported that the driver was forced to make a sudden stop, after which the truck’s cargo shifted dramatically. The steel pipes surged forward, crashing into the cabin of the truck and trapping the driver inside. Despite the quick response from emergency services, including the fire brigade, ambulances, and a Mobile Medical Team, they were unable to save the driver, who succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
The accident happened just past the exit on the A15 leading toward the A4 and the Beneluxtunnel. The impact was considerable, leading to a complete closure of the A4 towards The Hague. Authorities noted the road would remain shut for several hours, with traffic being diverted through the A15, A16, and A20 as a result.
As cleanup efforts commenced, the scene became congested with emergency vehicles and a trauma helicopter, working tirelessly to manage the situation. At approximately 4:00 PM, the A4 was reopened, but drivers faced lingering traffic jams extending through Rotterdam, particularly affecting the Ring-Zuid and Ring-Noord highways, as vehicles adjusted to the diverted routes.
Rijkswaterstaat confirmed that while the road was restored for use, the remaining two pipes would be secured later to avoid exacerbating traffic congestion during the evening rush hour. "To prevent further delays during rush hours, we plan to remove the pipes at a later time," they stated.
The police have entered into an investigation regarding the circumstances leading up to the tragic accident and are seeking witnesses to come forward. Anyone who observed the crash or its immediate causes is encouraged to contact the authorities at 0900-8844.
The site of the incident is notorious for high traffic volumes as the A15 and A4 converge, where many vehicles frequently change lanes. This fact has raised concerns over safety in the area, as the timing of the accident coincided with the busy midday travel period.
In the aftermath, motorists experienced severe delays, with reports indicating that by 4:55 PM, the slowdown for those traveling from Rotterdam-Hoogvliet towards Ridderkerk was pushing limits of up to an hour due to both the initial accident and another collision at the Vaanplein junction.
Officials have urged drivers to exercise patience during this chaotic time. Detours are in place, promoting alternative routes via the Van Brienenoord bridge (A16) or the Blankenburg connection (A24), although drivers are cautioned that the latter is not toll-free.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of road travel and the critical importance of vehicle and cargo security during transit. The heartache from this accident has been felt across the community, with many expressing condolences to the family of the deceased driver.
The police and emergency services continue to work diligently to piece together the sequence of events leading to this devastating loss of life on the A4.
Further updates are expected as the investigation unfolds, and authorities have reassured the public of their commitment to ensuring road safety and investigating the matter promptly.
