MOTORISTS have hit huge queues on the M4 motorway as a planned closure and major crash has sparked chaos.
The M4 was originally closed in both directions this weekend for planned works on a new bridge.
A crash on the M4 has now also caused heavy traffic as only one lane has been left on a section of the motorway.
“Traffic is struggling here due to the M4 in both directions planned weekend closure between J18 and J19,” Inrix reported.
The accident was reported just before the westbound exit at junction 18 (Bath), causing long queues to form.
Multiple emergency vehicles were called to the scene, including fire engines, police and at least one ambulance.
A helicopter was also spotted circling overhead the incident.
A driver was arrested and rushed to hospital, with cops saying he “sought to leave the scene on foot” after “failing to observe the hard closure in place for roadworks”.
He is understood to have ignored the roadworks on the M4 near junction 18 westbound this afternoon, shortly after midday.
Closures began between Bristol and Bath at 7pm last night, and will remain until 6am on Monday.
Road between junctions 18 at Bath, and 19 at the M32 have been completely shut down on the busy motorway.
A 15-mile diversion has been put in place via the A46, A420, A4174 and M32.
Motorists have been advised by National Highways not to travel in the area if possible.
National Express coaches are following the diversion, with passengers told to “expect delays”.
The new A432 Badminton Road Bridge is expected to open to public in early 2026.
Once beams are in place, the highways agency said there will be “minimal disruption” on the motorway.
