Investigators probing the highway collision in Romania that killed seven PAOK football supporters have zeroed in on human error as the likely cause, ruling out mechanical failure or technical malfunctions.
Traffic accident expert Panagiotis Madias stated that video footage of the Tuesday crash shows no evidence of the van's steering locking up, effectively debunking early theories regarding a "Lane Assist" system failure.
The rental company’s legal adviser subsequently confirmed the specific vehicle was not equipped with such technology.
"The video shows a tragic but clear sequence," Mr. Madias told Greek media. He explained that after the driver overtook another vehicle, he failed to return to his lane, drifting into the path of an oncoming truck without braking.
"The right wheels do not turn, not even slightly," Mr. Madias noted, suggesting the driver may have suffered from distraction or a sudden medical episode.
Weather conditions are also under scrutiny. Expert Dimitris Alexandrou told broadcaster Action 24 that heavy fog likely obscured the oncoming truck. "It appears the driver believed the opposite lane was clear," Mr. Alexandrou said.
The victims were traveling to France for a Europa League match when the collision occurred. As authorities await toxicology reports, the Greek sports community remains in deep mourning.