Police, the Fire and Rescue Service and St Johns Ambulance were called to a three vehicle crash on the Stuart Highway near BP Palms at about 3:30pm yesterday.

It is believed that all vehicles involved in the accident were travelling outbound on the Stuart Hwy in the left lane when the 61 year old driver of the double road train towing two side tipper trailers has slowed down for another Darwin Bus that had pulled out from bus stop in front of BP Palms.

The Darwin Bus that was involved in the accident has also slowed down however the 62-year-old driver of the semi trailer towing a refrigerated goods trailer was unable to stop in time and has subsequently crashed into the rear of the bus, which has then collided with the rear of the road train in front.

All vehicles came to stop shortly after impact.

The bus contained the driver and 46 passengers. A total of 33 injured passengers were conveyed to RDH with injuries ranging from soft tissue injuries, to lacerations and some fractures. All passengers arrived at RDH conscious via Ambulance or ambulance bus. There are five passengers remaining in hospital, all of which are in a stable condition.

Territory Duty Superintendent Bruce Porter said this incident highlights the fact that care needs to be taken at all time.

"It is extremely lucky that no one was left critically injured or dead, as a result of this accident. Vehicles, and especially trucks carrying heavy loads, need to make sure they allow sufficient room to stop and slow down."

Investigations are continuing into the incident and police are seeking information from the public who may have witnessed the accident or have any other relevant information.
Information can be provided to Police on 131 444 or the Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

Media contact:
Natalie Bell
89223531