Introduction
The latest M6 news reveals a tragic and serious crash near Leyland, leading to the complete closure of one of Britain’s busiest motorways. The M6, a critical route connecting the North West to the Midlands, has seen major disruption following a late-night collision involving multiple vehicles. Emergency services remain on the scene, with investigations continuing through the day to determine the exact cause of the crash.
According to M6 news live updates, police, fire, and ambulance crews were called out just after 10pm on Sunday evening. The crash, which occurred between junctions 27 and 28, has resulted in extensive delays, with queues stretching for miles in both directions. Drivers have been urged to avoid the area as recovery teams and investigators continue their work.
Understanding the M6 Closure and Its Location
This latest M6 news incident has affected the section of motorway between Leyland and Standish, causing chaos for commuters and freight drivers alike. The southbound carriageway remains fully closed, while the northbound lanes are partially reopened under strict traffic management controls. The area between these junctions serves as a crucial transport link for thousands of vehicles daily, meaning even short-term closures have a massive impact on travel times.
Motorists have been left frustrated as delays exceed 100 minutes, according to M6 news today reports. With long lines of stationary vehicles, many have turned to social media to express concern and seek updates. Local roads through Chorley and Euxton have become heavily congested as diversions route drivers through smaller towns, adding to regional traffic pressures.
Details of the Serious Crash Near Leyland
Early M6 news reports confirm that the collision involved at least two vehicles, one of which was reportedly travelling in the wrong direction. Lancashire Police have confirmed that a man in his 50s sadly died at the scene, while two others were taken to hospital with serious injuries. Investigations are ongoing, and officers are appealing to the public for any dashcam footage that could assist in establishing how the crash occurred.
Witnesses have described scenes of confusion and chaos as drivers stopped suddenly to avoid the collision. M6 news live updates indicate that emergency responders arrived within minutes, closing off both directions to allow paramedics and firefighters to reach the victims. The crash has shocked the local community, reminding drivers of how quickly a routine journey can turn into tragedy.
Traffic Delays and Diversions on the M6
Traffic across the region has been severely impacted, with M6 news sources confirming that some drivers have been stuck for several hours. The closure has forced many to seek alternative routes, leading to gridlock across nearby A-roads and smaller country lanes. The situation has been worsened by rush-hour traffic, as many morning commuters remain unaware of the ongoing disruption.
National Highways has issued diversion routes to help ease congestion, directing drivers through alternative junctions. However, the sheer volume of vehicles using the M6 has made it difficult to manage traffic flow effectively. According to M6 news today live, it may take several hours before normal travel conditions are restored, as debris clearance and police investigations continue.
Response from Emergency Services and Authorities
The swift and coordinated response from emergency services has been praised across the region. Lancashire Police, North West Ambulance Service, and local fire departments worked together to secure the area, assist the injured, and begin recovery operations. In an official M6 news update, authorities confirmed that accident investigation teams are now analysing evidence from the scene to determine the sequence of events.
Lancashire Police have urged patience from motorists, emphasising the importance of road safety. Their ongoing investigation aims not only to understand the cause of this crash but also to identify ways to prevent similar incidents in the future. According to M6 news now, the motorway will only reopen once all safety checks and recovery work have been fully completed.
Impact on Commuters and the Local Community
The M6 news reports have highlighted the widespread disruption caused by this closure, affecting thousands of daily commuters, delivery drivers, and logistics companies. Businesses reliant on the M6 corridor have faced significant delays in transporting goods, while residents living near diversion routes have complained of increased noise and traffic on residential roads.
Local communities have responded with empathy, offering assistance to stranded motorists through social media updates and local radio broadcasts. M6 news today coverage also shows how the closure has reignited calls for additional safety measures along high-risk stretches of the motorway. Many road users have urged authorities to review night-time driving conditions and increase patrol visibility.
Live Updates and When the M6 Is Expected to Reopen
According to the latest M6 news live reports, recovery and investigation teams continue to work around the clock to reopen the motorway safely. While one lane northbound has reopened, the southbound side remains closed pending completion of forensic examinations. National Highways has advised drivers to check travel updates before setting off.
It is expected that the motorway will gradually reopen later in the evening, but delays are likely to persist for much of the day. Travellers can stay informed through M6 news today channels, including BBC Travel, Manchester Evening News, and National Highways’ official social media accounts. Real-time updates and digital traffic maps remain the best sources for accurate information.
Safety Tips for Drivers Travelling on the M6
With incidents like this highlighting the potential dangers of motorway driving, M6 news reports are reminding motorists of key safety guidelines. Drivers should always maintain a safe following distance, avoid distractions, and adhere to speed limits. Fatigue and carelessness remain leading causes of accidents on high-speed routes such as the M6.
Before setting out on a journey, motorists are encouraged to check M6 news live and weather updates to prepare for potential hazards. Staying alert, well-rested, and focused behind the wheel can make all the difference. Authorities continue to stress the importance of patience, especially during emergency closures or major incidents.
Conclusion
The recent M6 news surrounding the serious crash near Leyland serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of road awareness and safety. As investigations continue, police and emergency services are working tirelessly to clear the scene and restore traffic flow. Commuters are urged to remain patient, follow official guidance, and stay tuned for verified updates.
While the M6 remains one of the UK’s most vital transport routes, incidents like this underscore the unpredictability of motorway travel. By following safety measures and keeping up with M6 news today, drivers can help prevent further tragedies and ensure smoother journeys for everyone on the road.
FAQs
Where did the M6 crash occur?
The crash happened between junctions 27 and 28 near Leyland, Lancashire, affecting both directions of the motorway.
Is the M6 open now?
As per the latest M6 news live, the northbound lanes are partially reopened, but southbound remains closed for investigation and recovery.
What caused the M6 crash near Leyland?
Initial M6 news reports suggest a wrong-way driver may have been involved, though police have not yet confirmed the final cause.
How long are the delays expected to last?
Delays of over 100 minutes have been reported, with congestion likely to continue throughout the day until the motorway fully reopens.
Where can I find live traffic updates?
Stay informed by checking BBC Travel, National Highways, and trusted M6 news today sources for live updates and diversion information.
