Major Crash Shuts 16 Miles of M20 Near Swanley
A massive three-vehicle collision has brought chaos to the M20 this morning. The crash happened around 6:00 AM on Wednesday, 16th October 2024, near Swanley, Kent. It forced the closure of a 16-mile stretch of the motorway, the vital link between the M25 and M26.
Emergency Crews Launch Dramatic Rescue
Kent Fire and Rescue crews rushed to the scene with three fire engines. Using specialist Lukas cutting tools, firefighters carried out a delicate side extrication to free the driver of a Smart car trapped in the wreckage. They worked closely with Kent Police and South East Coast Ambulance Service to manage the incident.
Massive Tailbacks and Road Closures
- The M20 is blocked in both directions from Junction 1 (M25) to Junction 3 (M26).
- The coastbound entry slip road is completely shut.
- Long delays stretch back over the QE2 bridge.
- Heavy traffic jams reported on the A20 Swanley bypass and throughout Swanley town centre.
Motorists are urged to steer clear of the area and seek alternative routes. Delays are expected to carry on well into the afternoon.
Police Investigation Underway, Road Remains Closed
Kent Police confirmed patrols remain on site. A spokesperson said: “Our patrols are at the scene of a serious collision involving three cars on the slip road from Junction 3 on the M25 towards the coastbound M20.”
The collision investigation unit will be at the scene until at least 2:00 PM to carry out scans and gather evidence. The motorway closure will stay in place until the investigation ends.
Stay tuned for updates on the M20 reopening and traffic conditions.
Originally published by UKNIP.
