M6 crash LIVE updates: four-vehicle collision near Wigan
Traffic conditions on the M6 worsened this morning after a crash involving three cars and a van caused a buildup on the northbound carriageway between junction 26 (M58 Orrell Interchange) and junction 27 (Standish). The incident prompted authorities to halt traffic briefly as responders worked at the scene, according to Inrix’s live updates.
Current northbound and southbound delays
Following the initial stoppage, traffic on the northbound side has started moving again, but queues are extending back past junction 25 toward Wigan. Motorists are advised to expect continued slowdowns as congestion clears. On the southbound side, delays persist past the crash site, with Google traffic data indicating ongoing slow traffic in the same corridor.
What happened and where
Inrix initially reported that two lanes were blocked on the northbound carriageway due to an accident involving three cars and a van from J26 M58 interchange to J27 A5209 Crow Orchard Road (Standish). Lanes two and three of the three-lane section were affected. The collision occurred on the stretch between the Orrell interchange and Standish, a critical route for commuters traveling toward Wigan and surrounding towns.
Impact on travel and how to stay informed
Drivers should anticipate temporary queues and possible further reductions in lane availability as emergency services and recovery teams operate at the scene. If you’re heading north toward Standish or Wigan, plan for potential delays and consider alternative routes where feasible. For real-time updates, stay with local traffic services and live feeds like the Inrix updates and Google traffic data, which reflect changing conditions as clearing actions progress.
Tips for drivers
- Check live traffic before you travel and allow extra time for your journey.
- If you’re near the crash site, reduce speed and follow directions from traffic authorities and temporary signage.
- Consider alternative routes if the northbound lanes remain congested, and monitor the M58/A49 corridors for diversions.
- Join our Traffic and Travel WhatsApp group for ongoing updates (link provided in the app or site).
Ongoing coverage
We will provide updates as soon as new information becomes available, including any changes to lane availability, closures, or recovery progress. Motorists further north on the M6 southbound have also faced disruptions due to a separate earlier collision, adding to the day’s travel challenges in the region.