Drivers are being warned to expect long delays as a major motorway remains closed almost 24 hours after a devastating incident, causing major congestion issues.
The M6 remains closed in both directions between J33 Lancaster and J32 Preston for recovery and clear-up works following a serious collision.
The collision involved a lorry which overturned and crossed through the central reservation barrier, National Highways reported.
Following the overturning, the fuel tank of the lorry ruptured, causing a "significant fuel spillage" which covered the road surface.
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Traffic maps show how the M6 will remain closed today
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
The serious collision means the road needs to be resurfaced as it was "damaged beyond repair", with work set to continue into the afternoon today.
Lane three (of three) is also closed on the northbound carriageway as emergency barrier repairs are also taking place in the central reservation.
National Highways: North-West reported that the complex repairs and clean-up work took place overnight, with further resurfacing work occurring this morning.
A spokesperson for Lancashire Police said: "We were called at about 11.20am today (Wednesday) to reports of a serious collision on the motorway close to junction 33.
"The collision involved an HGV travelling northbound which crossed onto the southbound carriageway and collided with a number of other vehicles. Sadly, the driver of the HGV, a man in his 50s, was pronounced dead at the scene."
Lancashire Constabulary announced that two other people, the driver of a Ford Transit, a man in his 40s, and the driver of a Suzuki Swift, a woman in her 40s, suffered serious injuries.
In total, 10 vehicles were involved in the collision, with three other motorists suffering more minor injuries.
Anyone who witnessed the collision is being urged to contact the police on 101 or email Lancashire Police's Serious Collision Investigation Unit.
Supt Hassan Khan, of Lancashire Constabulary’s Operations Dept said: "My thoughts first and foremost are with the loved ones of the driver who sadly died and with all those affected by this tragic incident.
"Our investigation into what caused this collision is ongoing.
"Work is still ongoing to repair the road so I would urge people to avoid the area if they can or check before you travel. I appreciate the delays are frustrating, but safety work needs to be completed before the road can open again.
"I would ask anyone who witnessed the collision, and who has not yet spoken to police, to get in touch."
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Surrounding roads are also seeing the impact of the motorway closure
NATIONAL HIGHWAYS
Road users are advised to follow the hollow diamond diversion route
- Exit the M6 at J33 (Lancaster South)
- At the roundabout take the first exit at A6 Garstang, Blackpool, Fleetwood
- Follow the A6 southbound through Garstang, Bilsborrow, Barton, Broughton to M55 J1 (Broughton)
- Take the first roundabout exit for Birmingham M6
- Follow the M55 to re-join the M6 J32, heading south towards Birmingham
