A major incident on the M6 motorway has left a lorry driver fighting for his life after a serious multi-vehicle collision that has caused widespread travel chaos across the Midlands.
The catastrophic crash, involving several heavy goods vehicles, occurred on the southbound carriageway between junction 9 for Wednesbury and junction 8 for the M5 interchange. The impact was so severe that debris scattered across the central reservation, also affecting the northbound side and forcing complete closure of both carriageways.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operation
West Midlands Police confirmed they were called to the scene at approximately 3:20 PM, with multiple emergency service vehicles including ambulance crews, fire engines, and traffic officers responding immediately.
A spokesperson for West Midlands Ambulance Service stated: "We have treated one male lorry driver who has sustained life-threatening injuries. He is currently receiving advanced trauma care at the scene before being transported to a major trauma centre."
Major Travel Disruption Across Region
The closure has created a nightmare for commuters and commercial traffic:
- Both southbound and northbound carriageways completely closed
- Long tailbacks stretching for several miles in both directions
- Significant delays on alternative routes including the M5 and A34
- Evening rush hour traffic severely affected
- Diversions in place but experiencing heavy congestion
National Highways has advised motorists to avoid the area entirely and seek alternative routes if possible, warning that delays are likely to continue into the evening.
Ongoing Investigation
Police collision investigators remain at the scene working to establish the exact circumstances that led to this serious incident. The complex recovery operation is expected to take several hours due to the number and size of vehicles involved.
Officers are appealing for any witnesses or drivers with dashcam footage to come forward as they piece together the sequence of events that led to this devastating crash on one of Britain's busiest motorways.
