The collision in Kent was caused by fog, reports say

Sep 6, 2013 06:59 GMT  ·  By

More than 100 vehicles collided in one of the most massive pile-ups in the history of Kent in the UK.

Kent Chief Insp Andy Reeves describes that the Sheppey Crossing bridge was closed off after the 7.15 a.m. crash on Thursday.

According to Sky News, eight people were severely injured but none of the motorists incurred fatal wounds. Kent Online estimated the number of cars involved in the pile-up at around 130.

"There are no fatalities but ambulance crews are dealing with a large number of walking wounded casualties. Firefighters have used hydraulic cutting equipment to release five people from their vehicles," a Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson states.

Sixty people suffered minor injuries and, while about half of them were treated on the spot, 35 were transported to area hospitals.

Officials credit the accident to "very, very thick" morning fog. AA president Edmund King also cites the motorists' poor use of fog lights.

"In dense fog you cannot see the brake lights ahead. By law, you don't have to have fog lights on, although it's recommended.

"Unfortunately many people don't know how to turn their fog lights on. You may only need them once a year but it's vital they get used," King says.

Chief Insp Reeves mentioned that the street was opened by 5.30 p.m., with both carriageways operational.

"I was thoroughly impressed by the patience and compassion displayed both by those involved in the collision and members of the local community, many of whom called to ask if they could help or brought bottles of water and food to the scene for the victims and emergency services staff," Reeves says in a statement.

Kent Police reports damages to more than 100 cars, including vans, trucks and vehicle transportation units.