TransLogistics

Transport and Logistics Network

M5 biker seriously hurt in crash as air ambulance called and motorway shut

The M5 was closed in both directions following a serious crash in the West Country involving a van and a motorbike. Police were called to the scene of the crash at 1.37pm today (Thursday, October 3) after a van and bike collided between junction 21 and 22.

Emergency services, including an air ambulance[1] were called to the scene near Weston-super-Mare in Somerset. The motorway was fully closed but has since opened northbound - you can see the latest updates in our blog here[2].

Motorists have been advised to avoid the motorway where possible and seek alternative routes. There have been miles of delays and tailbacks, with traffic cameras showing heavy congestion from Clevedon to Highbridge.

At 4pm, the M5 remained closed southbound due to accident investigation work from J21 A370 (Weston-super-mare) to J22 (Burnham-on-sea). Congestion to south coming from J20 (Clevedon) and north coming from J23 (Bridgwater North).

Trapped traffic is still being turned around. The diversion southbound is to leave at J21 (Weston-Super-Mare) along the A370 towards Weston-super-Mare.

Police are appealing for anyone with information or dashcam footage of the crash to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting the reference number 5224260872.

Shortly after the crash, National Highways closed the northbound carriageway to allow an air ambulance to land. It said: "The #M5 in #Somerset is CLOSED southbound between J21 (Weston-Super-Mare) and J22 (Burnham-on-Sea) due to a serious collision Traffic has also been stopped on the northbound carriageway to allow for Air Ambulance arrival."

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police said: "We were called at 1.37pm to reports of a serious collision involving a motorbike and van on the southbound carriageway of the M5 between junctions 21 (Weston-super-Mare) and 22 (Burnham-on-Sea).

"Emergency services are in attendance and have closed the motorway in both directions. We would encourage motorists to seek alternative routes. If you witnessed the collision or have any information which could help our investigation, call 101 and quote reference 5224260872 ."

References

  1. ^ air ambulance (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)
  2. ^ our blog here (www.gloucestershirelive.co.uk)

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