People affected by the two pile-ups on the Trakia motorway near the Zimnitsa junction can get free psychological help by phone on 0800 11 466, the Bulgarian Red Cross said. Another of the seriously injured died in hospital today, bringing the death toll to 12.

The crashes happened at about 7am on Tuesday, 10 November, when thick fog covered both carriageways, towards Burgas and towards Sofia. In all, 86 vehicles collided, and 11 people died the same day. Soon after, Yambol regional governor Georgi Chalakov declared a partial state of emergency in the municipalities of Yambol, Tundzha and Straldzha.

The background: Partial state of emergency in three Yambol area municipalities after Trakia motorway pile-up

The line is open to the injured, their families and friends, witnesses and anyone else affected. Psychologists trained to work in crisis situations take the calls. The help and the call are both free.

A serious crash, the loss of a loved one or fear for the life of an injured person can cause severe emotional stress, the Red Cross said. A timely talk with a psychologist lets a person share what they went through, helps them cope with their first reactions and shows them what to do based on their needs.

The Bulgarian Red Cross offered condolences to the families and friends of the dead and said it stood with the injured.

The phone line adds to help on the ground. Red Cross disaster and crisis response teams from Sliven and Yambol gave first aid and psychosocial support, and provided water and food.