A tragic collision between a car and a milk truck has claimed one life on a major Victorian highway, prompting significant road closures and a police investigation.
Details of the Fatal Collision
The incident occurred just before 1:00 PM on Monday on the South Gippsland Highway, near its intersection with the Bass Highway at Lang Lang. This location is situated just over an hour's drive to the southeast of Melbourne.
Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of a serious crash. Tragically, the driver and sole occupant of the car passed away at the site. The man is yet to be formally identified by authorities.
The driver of the milk truck sustained injuries in the collision. They were transported to a local hospital for treatment, with their condition reported as non-life threatening.
Major Road Closures and Detours
In the wake of the crash, VicTraffic has implemented a full closure of the South Gippsland Highway at Lang Lang. The closure affects both directions of travel between the Bass Highway and Kettles Road.
Motorists are being advised to use a detailed detour route. The official diversion for travel between Caldermeade and Nyora is as follows:
- Detour through Lang Lang
- Use Westernport Road
- Proceed via McDonalds Track, Hehlens Road, and Yannathan Road
- Continue on Watts Road and Lang Lang-Poowong Road
Authorities are urging all drivers to allow for considerable extra travel time if they are in the region. The investigation into the exact circumstances of the crash is ongoing, with Major Collision Investigation Unit officers likely to be involved.
Community Impact and Ongoing Investigation
Fatal accidents of this nature have a profound impact on local communities and the emergency personnel who respond. The closure of a key arterial route like the South Gippsland Highway also causes significant disruption for freight and commuter traffic in the region.
Police are appealing for any witnesses to the crash or anyone with dashcam footage who was travelling in the area around 12:45 PM to 1:15 PM on Monday to come forward. The findings of the investigation will be crucial for providing answers to the victim's family and for informing future road safety measures.
