A serious collision between a motorcycle and a heavy goods vehicle has forced the overnight closure of a key stretch of the A1M in County Durham, with two people rushed to hospital.
Road Closed for Investigation Overnight
The incident occurred on the evening of Monday, December 22, 2025, leading to the immediate shutdown of the motorway in both directions. The closure affects the section between junction 63 at Chester-le-Street and junction 62 at Durham. National Highways has confirmed that the road is expected to remain sealed off throughout the night to allow for a thorough investigation into the crash.
Emergency Response and Traffic Impact
Emergency services, including police, were quickly on the scene following the collision. A motorcyclist and a second individual involved in the incident were taken to hospital for treatment. Their current conditions have not been disclosed. National Highways stated that all vehicles trapped within the initial closure zone were released by 7:45 pm. However, significant delays and queues built up in the area as a result of the closure, causing disruption for evening commuters and travellers.
Ongoing Incident and Commuter Advice
With the closures anticipated to last all night, drivers are being urged to avoid the area and seek alternative routes. A spokesperson for National Highways told reporters: "Due to the nature of the incident and investigation works continuing, the closures are expected to remain in place throughout the night." The agency is advising motorists to plan their journeys accordingly for Tuesday morning, as recovery and investigative work at the scene continues. This remains a live incident, with further updates expected.
