Multi-vehicle crashes disrupt M25 and M65 motorways in England

A four‑vehicle collision on the M25 anti‑clockwise carriageway near the Dartford Crossing (between junctions 3 and 2) was reported at about 07:00 GMT on 13 May 2026. Two patients were treated at the scene, one was taken to Princess Royal University Hospital and the other was released. Three of the four lanes were closed, causing delays of up to 90 minutes, with traffic queues stretching back to junction 4. All lanes were reopened shortly before midday, and normal traffic flow resumed.

On the evening of 13 May 2026, a seven‑car crash on the eastbound M65 between junctions 8 (Hapton) and 10 (Burnley) led to the motorway’s closure for several hours. Heavy rain had affected the area. Emergency services attended, assisting two casualties on‑scene and handing three more to the North West Ambulance Service. The incident was classified as a minor‑injury collision, with no serious injuries reported, and the road was reopened before midnight.

Both incidents prompted extensive police, fire and ambulance deployments and temporary traffic diversions, but resulted in only minor injuries and relatively short‑term disruption.