Fatal accident between Caianello and Capua: truck driver reported

The driver of the truck that caused a tragic accident this afternoon on the Caserta section of the A1 Milan-Naples motorway, at kilometer 718 between Caianello and Capua, has been charged with vehicular homicide. The collision involved a total of six vehicles: the heavy truck and five cars.

A couple in their 70s suffered the most serious injuries: the woman died instantly, while her husband was rushed by air ambulance to Caserta Hospital, where he remains in critical condition. Other drivers suffered minor injuries.

Investigations and seizure

According to initial investigations by the Caserta Highway Police, the tractor-trailer struck the couple's vehicle for reasons still under investigation, triggering a violent collision with other oncoming vehicles. The driver of the truck was immediately subjected to routine alcohol and drug tests to determine his fitness to drive.

The officers seized the truck's license and black box, from which they will attempt to reconstruct the exact dynamics and speed of the vehicle before the impact.

 Traffic and rescue

The accident paralyzed the highway on a day already marked by the summer exodus. To allow for surveys and rescue operations, traffic was temporarily blocked, creating a tailback of up to 6 kilometers. To alleviate the inconvenience of motorists stranded in the sun, Autostrade per l'Italia staff distributed bottled water. Emergency medical services responded to the scene.

The Fire Department, the Highway Police, and personnel from the Cassino 6th Section Directorate were present. Traffic resumed around 16:15 PM with the reopening of the stretch toward Naples, where a three-lane diversion project was set up, with a remaining 5-kilometer tailback being cleared. The truck's final removal was completed around 18:30 PM, restoring full traffic flow.

Highway Police and Italian Motorways Handbook for Travelers

During the summer holiday weekends (characterized by red and black dots), the Highway Police and Autostrade per l'Italia remind you of the fundamental safety rules to follow before setting off:

Before setting off Check the vehicle: Check tyre pressure, oil level, coolant and brake operation.

Loading luggage: Stow luggage in the trunk without overloading the passenger compartment and balancing the weights so as not to alter the stability of the car.

Rest and nutrition: Avoid leaving when tired, avoid large meals and absolutely avoid drinking alcohol.

Planning: Check traffic bulletins (CCISS 1518, Anas VAI app, Isoradio) and avoid rush hour.

While driving: Zero distractions: Do not use your cell phone while driving (the main cause of rear-end collisions), avoid adjusting the navigation system or car radio while driving.

Safe distance: Maintain a wide margin from the vehicle in front, especially during sudden slowdowns or in the presence of diversion roadworks.

Seat belts: Always use them, both in the front and rear seats, and check that child seats are correctly secured.

Emergency lane and lane occupancy: Never use the emergency lane unless you have a serious breakdown or illness; on highways with three or more lanes, travel in the first free lane on the right.

Frequent breaks: Take a break every 2 hours of driving to rest your eyes and maintain high concentration.