Winter Storm Causes Traffic Accidents in Eastern Germany
A winter storm with snow and ice led to numerous traffic accidents on roads in the eastern German states of Saxony, Saxony-Anhalt, and Thuringia. Most incidents resulted in property damage, according to police reports.
A-4 Autobahn Accident
On Thursday evening, a semi-trailer truck transporting metal rolls skidded on the A-4 Autobahn near Glauchau in the Zwickau district and crashed through the median barrier. No injuries were reported, as stated by the Zwickau Police Department.
Initial investigations revealed that the 35-year-old driver was traveling towards Dresden on Thursday evening when he lost control of his vehicle shortly before the Glauchau-Ost exit. The truck crashed into the median barrier, crossed the median, and ended up in the oncoming lane towards Erfurt. The Autobahn was temporarily closed in both directions.
Snow Conditions on Autobahns
The Saxony-Anhalt Police Department reported "snow chaos" on the A-2, A-14, and A-36 Autobahns. In their jurisdiction, 25 accidents occurred on Thursday, with six people sustaining minor injuries.
On the A-14 Autobahn towards Schwerin near Calbe in the Salzlandkreis, a 36-year-old truck driver lost control, causing his vehicle to skid off the road and collide with the guardrail. The trailer turned sideways, blocking all lanes of traffic. The driver emerged unscathed. Emergency responders also faced challenges due to the adverse weather conditions. The roadway remained closed for nearly four hours before being cleared.
Schleusingen Accident
On the A-73 Autobahn near Schleusingen in the Hildburghausen district, a car spun out on the slippery road on Thursday afternoon and struck the right-hand guardrail. The driver sustained minor injuries. Other accidents in the area resulted in only minor damage, according to a spokesperson for the Autobahn Police.
Safety Precautions
Authorities urge drivers to exercise caution during winter weather conditions, especially on snow-covered and icy roads. They recommend reducing speed, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles, and being prepared for sudden stops.
Weather Forecast
Winter weather is expected to persist in eastern Germany over the coming days, with snowfall and low temperatures. Motorists are advised to stay informed about weather conditions before traveling and to adjust their driving accordingly.
