Prime minister Rumen Radev has asked drivers to show more discipline and responsibility after the pile-up on the Trakia motorway that killed one person and injured 51. He said this at the start of the regular cabinet meeting.

Police yesterday closed the Sofia-bound carriageway of the motorway after the crash in Yambol region, where there was fog. Drivers from Burgas were sent on a detour through Karnobat and Petolachkata.

Earlier on this story: At least 12 dead and 50 hurt in two pile-ups on Trakia motorway

Radev offered his condolences to the family of the man who died. He said yesterday was a hard day for the whole country and that what people saw had shocked everyone. He called the sight horrifying.

"Any of us could have lost a loved one or been crushed between the sheet metal on the motorway," Radev said.

Investigators will establish the causes, but that will not bring back the dead, the prime minister said. He said it is high time drivers started to respect life. Whoever protects others also protects themselves, he added.

Radev asked drivers to think of the people waiting for them at home and not to gamble with their lives. The prime minister said road safety depends on the discipline, responsibility and caution of everyone behind the wheel.

"A motorway is not a racetrack. What is the point of winning minutes if we risk losing a life?" Radev asked.