Fatal accident leaves legacy of problems for M6 motorists

THE legacy of a fatal accident brought major traffic problems to the M6 in Staffordshire early today.

One lane remained closed on the northbound section of the motorway between junctions 10 at Walsall and 10a, the M54 while emergency repairs were carried out following yesterday’s accident.

The situation was compounded by an accident this morning just south of the affected stretch, between Junction 9 (Wednesbury) and 10 (Walsall). Congestion tailed back to Junction 8, the link with the M5 north.

The accident yesterday closed the motorway for many hours and brought serious congestion to the area.

It was closed overnight to allow repairs and the difficulties accessing the route were relayed to revellers leaving the V Festival at Weston Park.

It is thought many of the campers may have opted to stay the night and travel back today, so motorists using the M6, M54 and A5 have all been warned to expect possible delays today.

The earlier accident involved a van pulling a trailer, a car, and a heavy goods vehicle were involved. One man died and one other – described as walking wounded – was treated for his injuries.

Specialist recovery equipment was needed from north Staffordshire to remove the vehicles before repair work could begin.

A motorway gantry was badly damaged in the crash and leaking fuel is also thought to have seriously damaged the road surface.

Accident investigation officers were also examining the scene of the crash to determine what had happened although they will also be reviewing CCTV footage.