Breaking News: The M6 is experiencing severe disruption due to a serious accident, and the delays are expected to last for hours!
This morning, drivers on the M6 faced a major setback as a 'serious collision' caused the southbound carriageway between junctions 12 and 13 to be shut down. The incident, which occurred shortly after midnight on Tuesday, has led to significant traffic congestion, and motorists are advised to prepare for extended delays.
Emergency services, including Staffordshire Police and the West Midlands Ambulance, swiftly responded to the scene, where a truck and a van were involved. The situation was further complicated by ongoing roadworks between junctions 12 and 10A, adding to the existing gridlock.
Traffic cameras revealed extensive tailbacks, with delays stretching as far back as junctions 14 and 15. Northbound traffic is also heavily affected, with reports of standstill conditions back to junction 12. Drivers heading south can anticipate considerable delays, especially as rush hour approaches.
National Highways estimates that the road closure will likely persist until around lunchtime, with an expectation of normal traffic flow resuming between 12:00 PM and 12:15 PM. Motorists should anticipate delays of up to an hour. The Staffordshire Roads Policing team has also warned of substantial delays in the Stafford area.
A diversion route has been put in place:
- Exit the M6 southbound at J13 and join the A449 southbound.
- Continue on the A449 until the junction with the A5 at Gailey.
- Take the A5 eastbound and continue to then re-join the M6 southbound at J12.
National Highways urges drivers to allow extra time for their journeys, consider alternative routes, or postpone their travel plans if possible.
But here's where it gets controversial... Road closures always cause frustration, but how do you feel about the handling of traffic diversions in such situations? Are the alternative routes always well-marked and efficient, or do they sometimes add to the chaos? What are your experiences with traffic delays on the M6? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
