11 Dead and 51 Hospitalized in Massive Fog Pileup on Trakia Motorway

A series of chain-reaction collisions involving 86 vehicles on the Trakia Motorway left 11 people dead and 51 others hospitalized on November 10.

The dense fog that blanketed the area near the Zimnitsa junction, a site known for frequent low-lying morning mist from the Tundzha River, created nearly zero visibility that persisted for hours following the initial crashes.

While authorities initially reported 12 deaths in the immediate aftermath, the Ministry of Health later confirmed the toll at 11 fatalities. Witnesses described the scene as an real apocalypse (true apocalypse), featuring mangled vehicles, trapped passengers, and burning wreckage across both lanes of the motorway.

While official investigations into the exact mechanism of the pileup are ongoing, experts point to the extreme weather conditions as a primary factor. Dr. Eng. Acting Director of the National Investigation Service Marian Marinov stated that while the fog created the conditions for reduced visibility, the precise sequence of the initial collisions remains subject to expert analysis and evidence review.

Expert Guidance on Driving in Thick Fog

Road safety specialists emphasize that standard motorway speed limits, such as 140 km/h, are not safe when visibility is severely compromised. In such conditions, experts advise that even 25 km/h may be too fast.

One road expert stated, In this fog I would stop. I would stop in a safe place or where there is a control authority, emphasizing that drivers should aim to pull over only in authorized areas rather than the emergency lane, which remains dangerous unless directed by authorities.

• Use fog lights and emergency flashers to reduce the likelihood of a collision by 70–80%.
• Keep both hands on the steering wheel to maintain stability in the event of an impact.
• Avoid sudden braking on wet surfaces to prevent losing control of the vehicle.
• If involved in a minor incident, turn on emergency lights, wear reflective vests, and wait behind the safety barrier off the road.

Strong Winds and Fog Increase Motorway Accident Risks

The section of the motorway between Sliven and Stara Zagora is noted for its susceptibility to strong winds, fog, and aquaplaning, especially during the colder months.

Experts warn that when visibility is poor, the most prudent action is to slow down gradually and seek a secure location to stop rather than remaining on the active roadway. This tragedy follows a previous chain-reaction accident seven years ago on the Struma motorway, which also occurred in thick fog and resulted in one fatality.

More on this story: Twelve Dead and 50 Injured in Massive Bulgaria Pileup