Significant traffic delays continue on the M5 near Burnham-on-Sea following a serious multi-vehicle collision, which has resulted in one individual sustaining injuries described as life-changing.
The incident occurred at approximately 5:25pm on Monday, 10 August, prompting the closure of the southbound carriageway between junction 22 (Burnham-on-Sea) and junction 23 (A39 Bridgwater). Traffic was initially held in both directions to allow emergency services to respond to the crash.
National Highways initially reported delays of about 30 minutes, compounded by congestion on the opposite carriageway caused by rubbernecking. Witnesses caught in the resulting traffic jams told Somerset Live that numerous emergency vehicles, including what appeared to be an air ambulance, were dispatched to the scene.
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An Avon and Somerset Police statement confirmed the motorway was closed in both directions between junctions 22 and 23 due to a four-vehicle collision. The force also confirmed that one person had been taken to hospital with injuries believed to be life-changing. Authorities urged motorists to adjust their travel plans accordingly.
Traffic monitoring service Inrix reported “long delays” at 6:30pm linked to the collision involving a car and a motorcycle. Northbound congestion extended to junction 24 (Bridgwater South), and surrounding roads such as the A38 Bristol Road and areas around Highbridge, Alstone, and Bridgwater city centre were also heavily congested.
Police and Inrix confirmed that the M5 was fully reopened shortly after 6:35pm. However, it is expected that the substantial traffic queues will take some time to dissipate completely as recovery efforts and investigations continue on site.