A driver in his early 50s was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs following a collision between a van and a lorry on the M5 motorway near Weston-super-Mare. The crash occurred at approximately 6:30 a.m. on Monday, September 8, causing significant traffic disruption on the southbound carriageway.
The incident, reported between junctions 20 (Clevedon) and 21 (Weston-super-Mare), resulted in an eight-mile queue as emergency services responded promptly. Traffic was partially blocked until around 9:45 a.m., when the scene was cleared.
Avon and Somerset Police confirmed that the arrested individual is also suspected of possession with intent to supply drugs. After the crash, the driver was taken to hospital for medical treatment.
READ MORE: Major Approval for 2,500-Home Ashton Park Development on Somerset Border
READ MORE: Takeaway in Bridgwater Loses Licence After Employing Illegal Workers
The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust dispatched multiple units, including a double-crewed land ambulance and a hazardous area response team, and transported one patient to Weston General Hospital.
Authorities are urging any witnesses or anyone with information regarding the circumstances leading to the collision to contact the police via phone or their online appeals form, quoting reference number 5225252850.