A lorry crash on the M6 near Preston caused significant traffic delays. The northbound carriageway was closed, and the driver was hospitalized.
Traffic on the M6 in Lancashire faced significant disruption on Monday after a lorry crashed through the central reservation. The incident occurred between Junction 31A (Longridge) and Junction 32 (M55) near Preston, leading to the closure of the northbound carriageway and lane closures on the southbound side.
The crash, reported around 1:10 PM, involved a HGV that collided with the central reservation. Emergency services responded to the scene, and the lorry driver was transported to a hospital for treatment. The extent of their injuries remains unconfirmed.
Immediate Aftermath and Response
The collision resulted in a large diesel spillage across all lanes, further complicating the situation. National Highways advised motorists to seek alternative routes due to the extensive delays. Pictures from the scene showed the HGV resting on top of the central reservation, requiring the use of cranes for its removal.
Traffic Congestion and Delays
The incident caused severe delays, with approximately 3.5 miles of stationary traffic building up on the M6 northbound between Junctions 31 and 32. Southbound traffic also experienced significant congestion, with delays reaching 90 minutes and queues stretching for 8 miles due to lane closures. The M55 and M61 northbound also experienced congestion.
Official Statements
Lancashire Police confirmed they received a report of the HGV colliding with the central reservation of the M6 between J31 and J32 at around 1 PM. A police spokesman stated that a man was receiving treatment and that the northbound carriageway and two lanes of the southbound carriageway were closed.
National Highways reported the closure of the M6 northbound between J31 (Preston New Road/Samlesbury) and J32 (Broughton Interchange). They also noted that lanes 3 and 4 (of 4) were closed on the southbound carriageway.
Ongoing Situation
Delays were expected to persist into the evening. Contractors were dispatched to manage the diesel spillage and assist with the recovery of the HGV. Motorists were urged to consider alternative routes to avoid the area.
Motorway Network Context
The M6 is a major motorway in the United Kingdom, connecting the Midlands to the Scottish border. Any disruption on this key route can have widespread effects on traffic flow across the region. The incident near Preston highlights the potential for significant delays and the importance of prompt emergency response and traffic management.
Sources: https://www.lep.co.uk/news/live-m6-updates-90-minute-delays-after-lorry-crash-closes-northbound-carriageway-near-preston-5025789
https://www.dailystar.co.uk/news/latest-news/m6-lorry-crash-sparks-traffic-34833972
https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/24996508.hgv-crashes-m6-near-samlesbury-causing-diesel-spillage/