A collision between a car and a lorry on the M6 motorway near Stafford led to significant traffic disruption, with queues stretching for several miles. The incident occurred on the southbound carriageway between junction 14 for Stafford and junction 13 for Stafford South, prompting emergency services to close lanes to allow for response and clearance.
Details of the Incident
The crash was reported shortly after midday on Tuesday, with West Midlands Ambulance Service and Staffordshire Police attending the scene. According to a spokesperson for West Midlands Ambulance Service, "We were called to reports of a road traffic collision on the M6 southbound near Stafford. We sent two ambulances and a paramedic officer to the scene." The spokesperson confirmed that one patient was treated for minor injuries and taken to Staffordshire's County Hospital for further checks.
Traffic Impact
The collision caused severe congestion, with National Highways reporting delays of up to 45 minutes and traffic backing up for around five miles. Motorists were advised to seek alternative routes, with local roads including the A34 and A449 experiencing increased traffic as drivers diverted. The southbound carriageway was partially blocked for over an hour while recovery operations took place.
Response and Clearance
Staffordshire Police confirmed that the road was reopened by around 2:30 pm after the vehicles were recovered and the carriageway was cleared. A police spokesperson said, "We were called to a collision involving a car and a lorry on the M6 southbound. No serious injuries were reported, and the road was reopened once the scene was made safe." The cause of the crash is under investigation, but no further details have been released at this time.
Advice for Motorists
National Highways urged drivers to plan their journeys and check for live updates before traveling. A spokesperson said, "We advise motorists to allow extra time for their journeys and to consider using alternative routes where possible. Live traffic information is available on our website and social media channels." The incident highlights the importance of safe driving on motorways, particularly in poor weather conditions.
