Miles of M5 delays after lorry carrying livestock crashes

Drivers on the M5 face miles of congestion through Somerset after a crash near Taunton. The collision, which involves a lorry carrying livestock, has left two lanes closed in the northbound carriageway between Taunton and Bridgwater, with huge delays continuing to grow in the area. National Highways has reported delays of more than 80 minutes on the stretch of motorway while emergency services are working to clear the collision from the scene.

Traffic monitor Inrix reports the lorry involved was carrying livestock animals. Further congestion has been reported along the A38 in North Petherton, as motorists divert around the collision. Commuters planning to take these routes during rush hour should prepare for delays or plan an alternate journey.

National Highways said: "Lanes 1 and 2 (of 3) remain closed on the #M5[1] northbound between J25 (#Taunton[2]) and J24 (#Bridgwater[3]) following a collision. Emergency services are in attendance and working to clear the scene. We're now reporting delays in excess of 80 minutes above usual travel times."

Eyewitnesses have reported a trailer vehicle flipped on its side between Taunton and Bridgwater and traffic was 'at a standstill' on the motorway. Inrix said: "Long delays and two lanes closed due to accident, a lorry involved on M5 Northbound from J25 A358 (Taunton) to J24 A38 Taunton Road (Bridgwater South). Congestion to routes through North Petherton along the A38.

The vehicle is carrying livestock."

Follow our ongoing live blog for more coverage of this incident.[4]

References

1. ^ #M5 (x.com)
2. ^ #Taunton (x.com)
3. ^ #Bridgwater (x.com)
4. ^ Follow our ongoing live blog for more coverage of this incident. (www.somersetlive.co.uk)