Many Injured in M4 Motorway Accident in Wiltshire
26/08/2008
At least 13 people have been injured in a crash involving two lorries, an empty coach and four cars on the M4 motorway in Wiltshire. One of the casualties is said by police to have been seriously hurt in the accident on the eastbound carriageway at about 0145 on the 26th of August. The motorway has been closed in both directions between junctions 17 and 18 near Leigh Delamere Services.
A spokesman from Wiltshire Police said: "A number of people have sustained injuries and both carriageways have been closed. The motorway is not expected to be reopened until noon due to damage caused to the central reservation and the need to remove heavy vehicles from the carriageways.
It is understood that the trailer unit of one of the lorries had crossed the central reservation, crashing into the cars. One of the drivers, who was seriously hurt, was trapped in his vehicle for more than two hours. The injured people were taken to Frenchay Hospital near Bristol and Great Western Hospital in Swindon.
Thermal imaging cameras were used to detect any further casualties and platforms were set up to access those trapped in the wreckage of the larger vehicles. Police said heavy lifting equipment would be required to move the lorries and bus from the scene.
If you or someone you know has been affected by this accident please contact us for free claims advice by filling in our online claims form.