The M62 crash today has caused significant delays across one of the UK’s busiest motorways, often resulting in full carriageway closures and long tailbacks between Liverpool and Hull. If you are currently caught in traffic or planning a journey, the most direct cause of M62 accidents typically involves multi-vehicle collisions, heavy goods vehicle (HGV) incidents, or adverse weather conditions particularly across the high-altitude Pennine sections. In this comprehensive guide, you will learn how to navigate M62 closures, understand the history of major incidents on this route, and find the best alternative roads to bypass congestion.
M62 Crash Overview
Major incidents on the M62 frequently occur near junction hotspots such as Junction 10 (M6 interchange) and Junction 29 (Lofthouse). These areas see a high volume of merging traffic which increases the risk of side-swipe and rear-end collisions during peak hours. If a crash involves a fuel spill or forensic investigation, the motorway may remain closed for several hours to ensure public safety.
The high-altitude section of the M62, specifically between Junction 22 and 23, is notorious for sudden fog and ice. These environmental factors contribute to a higher rate of seasonal accidents compared to other UK motorways. Drivers are advised to increase their following distance and adhere to variable speed limits displayed on overhead gantries to mitigate these risks.
Recent Major Incidents
A significant and tragic event occurred in January 2026 involving a collision between two HGVs and a taxi on the westbound carriageway. The accident resulted in the deaths of two Ryanair pilots who were being transported to the airport; the lorry driver involved was subsequently jailed for dangerous driving. This incident highlighted the severe dangers of driver fatigue and inappropriate speeds during torrential rain.
Another notable recent event involved a car fire near Junction 9 in Warrington, which saw the eastbound carriageway erupt in flames following a three-vehicle collision. Fortunately, no one was trapped in the wreckage, but the ensuing closure caused 15-mile tailbacks. Such incidents demonstrate how quickly a minor collision can escalate into a major traffic event on this vital trans-Pennine route.
Smart Motorway Risks
The M62 features several “all lane running” sections where the hard shoulder has been converted into a permanent traffic lane. While designed to increase capacity, these smart motorway segments have faced criticism due to the lack of a permanent safety lane for broken-down vehicles. National Highways has countered these concerns by installing radar-based Stopped Vehicle Detection (SVD) technology to alert control rooms within seconds of a vehicle stopping in a live lane.
Despite these safety upgrades, many motorists feel a sense of “lane anxiety” when navigating these stretches between Rochdale and Brighouse. To stay safe, you must obey the Red X signs on gantries, which indicate a lane is closed due to a crash or hazard ahead. Ignoring a Red X is not only illegal but is a primary cause of secondary collisions on the M62.
Trans-Pennine Weather Hazards
The M62 is the highest motorway in England, reaching an elevation of 1,220 feet at Windy Hill. This unique geography means that while it may be raining in Manchester or Leeds, it can be snowing or foggy at Junction 22. These rapid changes in weather often catch drivers off guard, leading to multi-car pileups during the winter months.
National Highways employs a specialized fleet of gritters and snow ploughs specifically for the Pennine section. However, during “White-out” conditions, the motorway is often closed between Junction 21 (Milnrow) and Junction 24 (Ainley Top). If you are traveling during a weather warning, always carry an emergency kit including blankets, food, and a fully charged phone.
Hotspots for Accidents
Statistics show that Junction 18 (Simister Island) and Junction 27 (Gildersome) are among the most congested and accident-prone areas on the M62. The Simister Island interchange, where the M62 meets the M60 and M66, handles over 200,000 vehicles a day. The complexity of the lane markings and the high volume of switching traffic frequently lead to minor bumps and major delays.
At Junction 27, the intersection with the M621 and a nearby large retail park creates a “stop-start” traffic flow that is a breeding ground for rear-end shunts. Keeping a consistent gap between you and the car in front is the most effective way to avoid becoming part of a crash statistic in these high-traffic zones. Modern dashcam footage often shows that “lane hopping” in these areas rarely saves time and significantly increases the chance of an accident.
HGV and Lorry Safety
Because the M62 is a primary freight route connecting the ports of Liverpool and Hull, a high percentage of traffic consists of heavy goods vehicles (HGVs). Crashes involving lorries on the M62 are often more severe due to the mass of the vehicles involved. Lorry drivers are subject to strict “tachograph” rules regarding rest periods, yet fatigue remains a leading cause of HGV-related accidents on this road.
When driving near large trucks, stay out of their “blind spots,” which are located directly behind the trailer and alongside the cab. If a lorry is struggling to climb the steep Pennine gradients, do not overtake aggressively. Give them the space they need to maneuver, especially when they are transitioning between lanes at major interchanges like the M1 or M6 crossovers.
Emergency Response Protocol
In the event of an M62 crash, the North West Motorway Police or West Yorkshire Police are usually the first on the scene. They work alongside National Highways Traffic Officers to secure the area and divert traffic. If you are involved in a collision, the first priority is to move your vehicle to an Emergency Area or the hard shoulder if one is available.
If your vehicle is stuck in a live lane, keep your seatbelt on, put your hazard lights on, and call 999 immediately. Do not attempt to exit the vehicle unless you can clear the safety barrier and reach a verge. Emergency services use a “multi-agency” approach to clear wrecks as quickly as possible, but forensic investigations for serious injuries can keep lanes closed for upwards of six hours.
Practical Information and Planning
Navigating the M62 requires preparation, especially given its reputation for unpredictability. By checking real-time data and knowing your route, you can significantly reduce the stress of your journey.
- Real-Time Updates: Use the National Highways “Traffic England” website or apps like Waze for the most accurate live data on M62 crashes.
- Peak Hours: Avoid traveling between 07:00–09:30 and 16:00–18:30 when the risk of minor “fender benders” is highest.
- Service Stations: Major stops include Birch (J18/19), Hartshead Moor (J25), and Ferrybridge (J33). These are essential for rest breaks to avoid fatigue.
- What to Expect: During a full closure, expect a minimum delay of 60 to 90 minutes as traffic is diverted onto local “A” roads.
- Safety Tip: If you see a Red X, move out of the lane immediately; cameras now automatically issue fines and points for this violation.
Seasonal Driving Advice
During the autumn months, “low sun” glare on the eastbound carriageway in the morning and westbound in the evening causes a spike in visibility-related crashes. Ensure your windshield is clean and your sun visor is functional. In winter, the M62 is often the first road to be affected by “Black Ice,” which is invisible to the naked eye but can cause a total loss of vehicle control.
Summer brings its own challenges, primarily vehicle breakdowns due to overheating in stationary traffic. Ensure your coolant levels are topped up and you have plenty of water in the car. Most M62 crashes in the summer occur on Friday afternoons as holidaymakers head toward the coast, so plan your weekend trips for early Saturday morning if possible.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find out if the M62 is closed right now? The fastest way is to check the National Highways official Twitter (X) feed or their live traffic map. Local radio stations like BBC Radio Manchester or BBC Radio Leeds also provide regular “Travel Bulletin” updates every 15 to 20 minutes.
What is the “highest point” on the M62 and why is it dangerous? The highest point is at Junction 22, near Saddleworth Moor. It is dangerous because it experiences extreme weather conditions, including 90mph gale-force winds and sudden thick fog, which can reduce visibility to less than 10 meters.
Are smart motorways on the M62 being scrapped? The UK government has paused the rollout of new smart motorways, but existing sections on the M62 remain operational. These sections are being upgraded with more emergency refuge areas and better radar technology to improve safety.
What should I do if my car breaks down on a smart motorway section? Try to reach an Emergency Area (marked with blue signs and an orange SOS phone). If you can’t, pull as close to the nearside verge as possible, put on your hazards, and call 999. Stay in your car with your seatbelt on unless it is safe to exit via the passenger door.
Why do M62 crashes take so long to clear? If there is a serious injury or fatality, the police must conduct a forensic collision investigation. This involves mapping the scene and collecting evidence for potential criminal charges, which can take several hours before the vehicles can be moved.
Which junction on the M62 has the most accidents? Junction 18 (Simister Island) is statistically one of the busiest and most complex interchanges, leading to a high frequency of accidents. Junction 27 near Leeds is also a major hotspot due to the volume of retail and commuter traffic.
Is there a “secret” farm in the middle of the M62? Yes, Stott Hall Farm is located between the eastbound and westbound lanes at Junction 23. Contrary to myth, it wasn’t a stubborn farmer who refused to move; the road was split because the underlying geology was too unstable to build the lanes side-by-side.
Can I be fined for ignoring a Red X on the M62? Yes, National Highways uses automatic cameras to detect vehicles driving in lanes marked with a Red X. Offenders can receive a £100 fine and three penalty points on their driving license.
What are the best alternative routes when the M62 is blocked? Depending on where the crash is, the A580 (East Lancs Road) is a good alternative for Liverpool-Manchester travel. For trans-Pennine trips, the A62 or A640 can be used, though these are slower, winding roads not suitable for HGVs.
How many people use the M62 every day? On its busiest sections near Manchester and Leeds, the M62 carries over 140,000 to 200,000 vehicles daily. This high density is the primary reason why even a minor crash can cause massive ripple effects across the regional road network.
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