On Friday evening, May 9, 2025, a serious accident occurred on the A12 highway near Duiven, Gelderland, involving a wrong-way driver. The incident, which took place at hectometer marker 139.8, led to multiple injuries and prompted a swift response from emergency services.
Shortly after 10:00 PM, police began receiving numerous reports of a vehicle traveling against the flow of traffic on the A12. The situation escalated quickly, as less than fifteen minutes later, at 10:11 PM, the Police Gelderland-Midden received a formal report of a collision that had occurred due to the wrong-way driver. Eyewitnesses reported seeing the vehicle weaving dangerously before the crash.
The collision involved three vehicles, including the wrong-way driver’s car. Emergency services arrived promptly on the scene to assess the situation and provide medical assistance. Several individuals sustained injuries and were transported to nearby hospitals for treatment. The exact number of injured parties has not been disclosed, but reports indicate that the injuries ranged from minor to serious.
As a precaution and to facilitate the investigation, authorities closed the A12 in the direction of the German border between Westervoort and Zevenaar. This closure is expected to remain in effect for an extended period while officials conduct their inquiries into the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Traffic heading toward Oberhausen was advised to take alternate routes, specifically detouring via the A50 to avoid the affected area. The situation has caused significant delays, and motorists are urged to exercise caution and patience as they navigate the detours.
Local residents expressed their shock at the incident, with many highlighting the dangers posed by wrong-way drivers. "It’s terrifying to think that someone could be driving the wrong way on such a busy highway," one witness stated. "I hope everyone involved is okay." The local community is rallying in support of those injured, with many sending well wishes for a speedy recovery.
The incident raises concerns about road safety and the measures in place to prevent similar occurrences in the future. Authorities are expected to review surveillance footage and witness statements as part of their investigation. The police have also urged anyone with further information about the accident to come forward.
This accident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers on the road and the critical importance of adhering to traffic regulations. As investigations continue, officials are committed to ensuring that such incidents are minimized in the future.
In the aftermath of the crash, the local fire department and ambulance services were on high alert, responding to multiple emergency calls in the area. The coordinated response involved not only police but also various fire brigades from Gelderland-Midden, highlighting the collaborative effort of emergency services in handling the situation effectively.
As the investigation unfolds, the community remains vigilant, hoping for improved safety measures on the roads. The A12, a major thoroughfare connecting various regions, will undoubtedly be under scrutiny as authorities seek to enhance traffic safety protocols.
In conclusion, the accident on the A12 near Duiven on May 9 has left a significant impact on the local community, prompting discussions about road safety and the need for heightened awareness among drivers. As victims recover and the investigation proceeds, the hope remains that lessons will be learned to prevent future tragedies.
