When M4 could reopen after serious injury crash

A major crash on a key stretch of the M4 closed the motorway in both directions into the afternoon (Monday, December 12). National Highways had warned drivers that the serious crash[1] near Bristol could mean normal traffic conditions don't return until around 11.30pm. The motorway was closed between the M4 Prince of Wales Bridge at junction 22 and Awkley (at junction 21) shortly after 5am following the crash reported at around 4.44am.

Collision investigation work has taken place at the crash scene and the motorway has reopened, but delays remain. Motorists had been sent on a diversion via the M49 from the Pilning Interchange to join the M5 at junction 18a. Drivers should then continue on the M5 to junction 16 to rejoin the M4.

Avon and Somerset Police said earlaier: "M4 in both directions closed, long delays due to accident investigation work from J22 M49 to J21 M48. Congestion to J23 (M48 interchange). Following an accident this morning, the road has been closed in both directions since around 5am."

National Highways said earlier: "A serious collision occurred at approximately 04:44 resulting in a closure of the M4 in both directions after the Prince of Wales Bridge near Almondsbury. Avon and Somerset are leading the response to the incident. National Highways resources are in attendance assisting with traffic management."

The latest from Inrix, the traffic and travel site, says: "Two lanes closed and queueing traffic due to earlier accident on M4 Prince Of Wales Bridge Eastbound from J23 M48 to J22 M49. Cameras show lanes three and four remain closed on the eastbound carriageway." Updates on this incident can be found in our live blog.[4]

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References

1. ^ serious crash (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
2. ^ Street where people have sex in sleeping bags and cook heroin (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
3. ^ BBC Countryfile: Ellie Harrison 'heartbroken' as stars including Adam Henson mark her final show (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
4. ^ our live blog. (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
5. ^ iPhone (go.skimresources.com)
6. ^ Android (play.google.com)