THE M4 motorway has been closed since the early hours following a serious crash near the Prince of Wales Bridge. Emergency services, including Avon and Somerset Police, are currently at the scene. Police have reported finding “a number of casualties” and have confirmed that two cars have left the road. The incident occurred at around midnight, and the road has been closed for several hours since then.
Numerous road users have reported being stuck on the M4 for up to five hours overnight as a result of the crash. National Highways traffic officers and Traffic Wales are working together to manage the traffic, while collision investigations are being carried out by the police. National Highways has stated that the road closure is expected to last “until at least 2pm.”
To ease congestion, drivers are advised to use the M48 Severn Bridge as a diversion if possible. Traffic camera images from Traffic Wales show that eastbound traffic is affected by the incident, while westbound traffic remains unaffected at present.
Avon and Somerset Police have released a statement appealing for information from witnesses. A spokesperson for the police force stated, “Emergency services were called to a two-vehicle collision on M4 eastbound between junctions 22 (M49) and 21 (M48) at approximately 12:05 am this morning (Monday, July 17). Officers arriving at the scene found both vehicles had left the carriageway, and a number of casualties. The road remains shut eastbound. A diversion route is in place via the M49 and M5 while recovery work and investigation work is carried out. If you were in the area and witnessed the collision or have any dashcam footage and have not yet spoken to police, please contact 101 and quote reference 5223170366.”
The closure of the M4 has caused significant disruption in the surrounding areas. Traffic Wales South has acknowledged the ongoing incident and confirmed that the surrounding areas remain busy as a result. They expressed their gratitude for the cooperation of those traveling through the affected areas.
Diversion routes have been put in place for road users. Exiting the M4 at junction 22, drivers should take the second exit onto the M49 southbound. They should then follow the M49 to junction 18 of the M5, where they should take the fourth exit to rejoin the M5 northbound at junction 18A. From there, they can continue on the M5 to junction 16 to rejoin the M4 eastbound and resume their journey. Road users are also advised to utilize the M48 Severn Bridge crossing when possible.
National Highways has advised motorists to plan ahead and allow extra journey time in case the closure affects their planned route. They suggest considering alternative routes or delaying the journey if necessary.
The police and emergency services are working diligently to investigate the crash and clear the scene as soon as possible. Further updates on the incident will be provided as new information becomes available.
