A motorcyclist in his 40s was seriously injured after a collision with a rubbish truck on Perth’s Mitchell Freeway during the morning commute on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. The crash triggered a large emergency response, caused significant traffic disruption, and temporarily closed part of one of Perth’s busiest freeway corridors.
St John Ambulance attended the scene at approximately 5:50am. After receiving treatment on the freeway, the rider was transported under priority one conditions to Royal Perth Hospital, arriving at about 6:43am. Police and emergency crews remained at the location for several hours while investigations began.
The latest incident follows other serious crashes on the Mitchell Freeway in recent months. Earlier this year, another fatal Mitchell Freeway crash in Perth also resulted in major traffic delays and an extensive police investigation.
Morning commute heavily affected
The collision brought traffic to a near standstill across Perth’s northern corridor during the morning peak. Drivers experienced delays of around 30 to 35 minutes, with queues stretching for several kilometres while emergency services worked to clear the scene and assist the injured rider.
Main Roads Western Australia advised motorists to leave the freeway at Ocean Reef Road or use the Warwick Road on-ramp as an alternative route until the affected section reopened. Although traffic resumed later in the morning, congestion remained heavy for some time. Live traffic updates were published by Main Roads Western Australia.
Police investigation continues
Images from the aftermath showed investigators examining the area around the motorcycle and rubbish truck, with debris scattered across the roadway. Witnesses reported that paramedics spent considerable time stabilising the rider before he could be safely transported to hospital.
Western Australia Police have not yet released details about what caused the collision or whether any charges are expected. Investigators are examining the crash scene, the vehicles involved and other available evidence to establish the sequence of events.
Authorities are expected to provide further information once the investigation progresses. In the meantime, drivers are reminded to remain alert around heavy vehicles and exercise extra caution during peak-hour travel when traffic conditions can change rapidly.
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