M2 Traffic Accident Today – Motorists experienced severe delays on the M2 this morning following a three-car collision that brought westbound traffic to a standstill during the busy morning rush hour. The incident occurred shortly after 8 a.m. on the M2 westbound, between junction 5 for the A249 Sittingbourne and Stockbury Roundabout and junction 4 for the A278 Hoath Way in Gillingham. This stretch of motorway is a key commuter route, making the disruption particularly impactful.
Emergency services responded promptly, with police, fire crews, and paramedics working together to manage the scene and assist those involved. Due to the severity of the collision and safety concerns, one lane was initially closed, and traffic was temporarily halted entirely. This led to extensive congestion, with queues stretching up to nine miles at the peak of delays, reaching back toward junction 6 for Faversham.
The surrounding road network, particularly the A249, was also affected. Traffic built up from the Bobbing Roundabout in Sittingbourne as drivers attempted to divert or became caught in the knock-on congestion. Many motorists reported delays exceeding an hour, causing frustration and disruption to both work and school journeys.
National Highways confirmed that traffic had to be held while oil from the crash was cleared from the motorway. A spokesperson said the clean-up operation was essential for driver safety, ensuring that lanes could reopen without risk of further incidents. Specialist crews attended the scene to remove debris and treat the road surface, preventing hazards caused by slippery conditions.
After the debris and oil were cleared, all lanes reopened, and traffic gradually began to flow again. However, congestion persisted for some time as traffic volumes normalized.
Reports indicate that only minor injuries were sustained in the collision. Paramedics assessed those involved on-site, and while some may have been taken to hospital, no life-threatening injuries were reported. Police are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash but have not released detailed information about the number of people affected.
Authorities urged drivers to seek alternative routes during the incident and to allow extra travel time. They also reminded motorists to exercise caution, especially on busy motorway sections during peak hours, where sudden braking and congestion can increase the risk of accidents.
The M2 crash highlights the significant impact a single collision can have on major motorway routes and serves as a stark reminder of the importance of driver vigilance. Investigations remain ongoing, and emergency services continue to monitor traffic safety across the affected area.