M5 Motorway Reopens After Serious Collision Causing Prolonged Disruption

Prolonged delays and significant traffic disruptions occurred on the M5 motorway in Devon, England, on July 12 following a serious collision involving a car that lost a tire, causing severe injuries to at least three people. Emergency services responded promptly, and the air ambulance was called to the scene. The motorway was closed in both directions around Junction 29, causing extensive congestion. Subsequently, one lane of the southbound carriageway reopened, while the northbound lanes remained closed until the road fully reopened several hours later.

Key Takeaways:

• A serious collision occurred on the M5 motorway near Junction 29 in Devon, England, on July 12, resulting in at least three people sustaining serious injuries.
• The air ambulance was called to the scene, and emergency services responded promptly to deal with the incident.
• The motorway was closed in both directions around Junction 29, causing significant traffic disruption and prolonged delays for motorists.
• One lane of the southbound carriageway reopened, while the northbound lanes remained closed until the road fully reopened.
• The collision is under investigation to establish the full circumstances of the incident.
• National Highways and police officials urged motorists to remain patient and avoid the area, as extensive congestion was reported.
• A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police stated, "We are aware that there is significant traffic disruption and we will get people moving safely when we can but please bear with us while we deal with the incident and causalities at the scene."
• Chief Inspector Simon Jenkinson said, "Following a serious collision on the M5 this afternoon, the motorway has been closed in both directions around Junction 29... Enquiries will also be carried out at the scene to establish the full circumstances of the incident, and this has to be completed before we can reopen the road."

Statistics:

• The collision occurred around 3 pm local time on July 12.
• At least three people sustained serious injuries.
• The air ambulance was called to the scene.
• The motorway was closed in both directions for several hours.
• One lane of the southbound carriageway was reopened.
• The northbound lanes remained closed until the road fully reopened.
• Prolonged delays and significant traffic disruptions were reported.
• Approximately 1,500 vehicles were stuck in tailbacks.

Sources:

• Chief Inspector Simon Jenkinson, Devon and Cornwall Police.
• National Highways.
• Devon and Cornwall Police.
• Facebook user account.