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Austria Today

Austrian news in English

Friday, September 20, 2024

Chaos on A8: Fire and Wrong-Way Drivers

Published: 2024-08-12

On Sunday, a dramatic incident unfolded on the Innkreisautobahn A8 in Upper Austria, involving a vehicle fire and subsequent traffic chaos.

A 25-year-old German driver and his partner narrowly escaped their car after it caught fire due to a technical defect.

The vehicle was quickly engulfed in flames, also igniting a nearby embankment.

The fire led to a temporary closure of the A8, causing a significant traffic jam.

In a reckless attempt to avoid the congestion, around 50 drivers turned their vehicles around and drove the wrong way in the emergency lane, known as the Rettungsgasse.

This dangerous maneuver, captured in photos and videos, has led to potential legal consequences for those involved.

The incident highlights the risks of impatience and irresponsible driving behavior on busy highways.