A serious multi-vehicle collision on the M5 motorway near Bristol has caused severe disruption, with tailbacks stretching for miles during the Thursday morning rush hour.
Emergency services rushed to the scene between junctions 16 (Aztec West) and 17 (Cribbs Causeway) after reports of a significant incident involving several vehicles. National Highways confirmed the southbound carriageway was partially blocked, causing major delays for commuters.
Travel Chaos for Morning Commuters
The crash occurred during peak travel times, creating nightmarish conditions for drivers heading towards Bristol and beyond. Traffic cameras showed stationary vehicles backed up for several miles as emergency crews worked to clear the scene.
Motorists reported being stuck in queues for over an hour, with some abandoning their journeys altogether. Local diversion routes quickly became congested as drivers sought alternative paths.
Emergency Response and Recovery
Avon and Somerset Police, along with paramedics and fire crews, attended the incident. While the full extent of injuries remains unclear, early reports suggest several people required medical attention.
Recovery vehicles were dispatched to remove damaged cars from the carriageway, but the complex nature of the collision meant clearance operations took several hours.
Travel Advice for Drivers
National Highways issued the following guidance:
- Avoid the area if possible
- Allow extra journey time if travel is essential
- Follow signed diversion routes
- Check traffic apps before setting out
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of maintaining safe distances between vehicles, especially during busy periods on major motorways.
