Traffic congestion has built up on the M4 this afternoon due to a car collision that led to a significant response from emergency services. The incident has resulted in the closure of one lane on a segment of the motorway near Junction 18 westbound, compounding existing disruptions between Bristol and Bath caused by planned works on the new A432 Badminton Road Bridge.
A man has been apprehended on suspicion of a driving offense related to the crash. Authorities stated that the driver attempted to flee the scene on foot after disregarding the roadworks closure but was located with the assistance of a police helicopter.
A vehicle involved in the earlier crash on the M4 westbound between junctions J17 and J18, according to the latest National Highways updates. Normal traffic flow is anticipated to resume within the next thirty minutes.
The M4 will be shut down in both directions between J18 Tormarton and J19 M32, Bristol throughout the weekend for scheduled bridge construction activities. Approximately 3,000 to 4,000 vehicles are projected to traverse this motorway section hourly during peak weekend times. Motorists were advised to steer clear of the area and plan ahead even before today’s collision occurred.
The closure of the M4 in both directions is to facilitate the installation of steel beams for the new A432 Badminton Road Bridge. This closure between Bristol and Bath commenced last night at 7 pm.
A driver was arrested and taken to the hospital following the incident near Junction 18 westbound where roadworks are ongoing. Authorities have confirmed the arrest and stated that vehicle recovery operations will be conducted this afternoon.
