M6 Traffic Chaos: Van Overturns, Causing Major Delays

Felix Dubois

3 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

4.2

Share

The Accident and its Immediate Impact

At approximately 7:30 am this morning, a van overturned on the northbound carriageway of the M6 near Junction 16. Initial reports suggest the incident involved only the van, though a full investigation is underway. Emergency services, including the police, ambulance service, and fire brigade, responded swiftly to the scene. Thankfully, initial reports indicate the driver sustained only minor injuries.

The immediate consequences of the M6 accident were severe:

• A complete closure of the northbound carriageway between Junctions 15 and 17.
• Tailbacks stretching for over 7 miles, causing significant delays for commuters and travelers alike.
• Average speeds in the affected area plummeted to less than 5 mph.
• Significant knock-on effects on surrounding A-roads, with congestion reported on alternative routes like the A500 and A34.

Diversions and Traffic Management

Highways England has implemented a comprehensive diversion strategy to alleviate the M6 traffic congestion. Drivers are being advised to follow the following routes:

• Northbound Traffic: Exit the M6 at Junction 15 and follow the A500 northbound towards Stoke-on-Trent. Rejoin the M6 at Junction 17. This adds approximately 30 minutes to journey times.
• Southbound Traffic: The southbound carriageway remains open, but drivers should expect some delays due to onlookers and emergency vehicle activity.

Highways England is employing various traffic management strategies, including:

• Lane closures on the southbound carriageway to allow emergency services safe access.
• Temporary speed limits implemented on approach roads to manage traffic flow.
• Regular updates via social media and their website.

To assist in navigating the M6 traffic disruption, consult live traffic information services like Google Maps and the Highways England website. These sources provide real-time updates and alternative route suggestions.

The Current Situation and Expected Clear-Up Time

(Update as of 11:00 am): The northbound carriageway of the M6 remains closed near Junction 16. The van has been removed, but recovery work, including the cleanup of debris and assessment of the road surface, is still underway. Highways England estimates that the road will reopen around 2:00 pm. However, this is subject to change depending on the progress of the recovery and repair work.

A summary of the current situation includes:

• Emergency services remain at the scene conducting a thorough investigation.
• The duration of the disruption is now expected to extend into the afternoon.
• Drivers are strongly advised to avoid the M6 northbound between Junctions 15 and 17 until further notice.

Advice for Motorists

Motorists planning to travel on the M6 should be aware of the ongoing disruptions and take the following steps:

• Check live traffic updates on the Highways England website and mobile apps before setting off.
• Allow significantly more time for your journey than usual.
• Consider alternative routes using A-roads and bypasses, consulting navigation apps.
• Stay informed through official sources (avoid social media speculation).
• Drive carefully and cautiously, observing speed limits and being mindful of emergency service vehicles.

Conclusion

The overturned van on the M6 near Junction 16 has caused significant M6 traffic chaos and major delays this morning. The swift response from emergency services and the implementation of diversion routes are helping to alleviate the situation. However, significant disruption is still expected. To avoid the M6 traffic, use alternative routes, and check live updates regularly. Remember to allow extra time and drive safely. Stay updated on the M6 traffic situation by checking live traffic news updates regularly. Use official sources to avoid misinformation and plan your journey accordingly. Avoid the M6 if possible until further notice. If you are already experiencing M6 traffic delays, drive safely and follow instructions from emergency services.