Chișinău-Bound microbus overturns in Galați county: Cause under investigation
A microbus carrying 17 passengers en route from Bucharest to Chișinău overturned on Romania's DN 24 in Galați County on Monday, January 8, 2024.
While 16 passengers emerged unharmed, one individual sustained injuries requiring medical attention.
"Initial investigations by the Galați County Police Inspectorate (IPJ Galați) indicate the driver, a 40-year-old dual citizen of Romania and Moldova, lost control of the vehicle due to adverse weather conditions, namely icy roads and strong winds," the IPJ Galați stated. The microbus subsequently "skidded off the roadway and overturned," the statement confirmed.
A 55-year-old female passenger experiencing abdominal pain was transported to the hospital for evaluation. "The remaining passengers were safely transferred to their destination in a replacement microbus provided by the transportation company," the IPJ Galați reported.
Breathalyser tests confirmed the driver was not under the influence of alcohol, and authorities verified the validity of their driver's licence. "The driver possessed a valid driver's licence and was not intoxicated," the IPJ Galați emphasised.
Temporary traffic disruptions ensued while authorities investigated the scene. "Traffic was diverted to a single lane for investigative purposes," the IPJ Galați explained. "Normal traffic flow resumed shortly thereafter."
A criminal investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the incident. "The IPJ Galați has opened an investigation into potential charges of negligent bodily harm," the statement concluded.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
