A driver became trapped after a tipper lorry crashed through a motorway barrier on the M3 in Hampshire, landing on its side in undergrowth 20 feet below. The serious collision occurred yesterday evening between Eastleigh and Southampton, near junction 14.
Crash details and emergency response
The lorry veered off the southbound carriageway, crashing through the safety barrier near the southbound entry slip road. It landed on Chestnut Avenue, and the driver's condition has not been publicly disclosed. Emergency services were called at 10:01pm on 11 August to reports of the collision.
Hampshire Constabulary confirmed the vehicle left the carriageway after hitting the bridge barrier. The two left lanes leading to the slip road for the M27 westbound remain closed, while the two right lanes on the southbound carriageway are open. Chestnut Avenue is also closed between Nightingale Avenue and Falkland Road.
Road closures and investigation
Police warned that closures are likely to be in place for a significant time due to damage to the crash barrier. An investigation is underway, and the local authority will need to carry out extensive work to ensure the road is safe before reopening. Motorists are advised to find alternative routes.
The crash occurred a few miles east of the New Forest wildfire, which has now raged for four days after a van fire spread to dry heathland. The blaze has engulfed around 140 football pitches worth of land. Hampshire Fire Service said challenging terrain and limited access continue to make firefighting difficult, with high temperatures forecast adding to the challenges.
