M5 closed in both directions after teenage girl rushed to hospital as drivers stranded in traffic & urged to avoid area
THE M5 was closed in both directions after a teenage girl was rushed to hospital in a crash.
Drivers were urged to avoid the area some were caught stranded on the highway.
The southbound carriageway remains closed late on Wednesday night and a backlog of traffic is being cleared.
The incident happened on the southbound carriageway between junctions 12 and 11a.
A teenage girl was taken to hospital with serious injuries and Gloucestershire cops are now appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage.
Emergency services attended the incident leading to both directions of the road being closed.
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The northbound lane has since reopened but the southbound lanes remain closed.
Gloucester Constabulary said: "Motorists are advised to use alternative routes where possible."
Drivers say they have been trapped on the road for two hours.
One said: "On my way to Birmingham to see a concert as I’m sure many are. When will this end."
Another posted: "Bringing two elderly people home from hospital and been sat here since 4.30. I fully understand you are dealing with an incident and you need time."
Trapped traffic is now being released southbound.
Traffic delays are currently hampering Gloucester with Bus operator Stagecoach saying all its services were suffering delays.
Diversion route
National Highways say drivers are advised to follow the Solid Circle diversion symbol on road signs for a diversion.
Exit the M5 southbound at J11A onto the A417.
Continue on the A417 eastbound to the first exit at Brockworth.
Take the 4th exit on the roundabout to head back westbound on the A417.
Continue on the A417 westbound to the roundabout with the A38.
Join the A38 and continue southbound towards Quedgeley.
Re-join the M5 southbound at J12.