LIVE: M55 delays as air ambulance lands at scene of car and van crash - latest traffic updates
Emergency services are working at the scene this afternoon...
A crash involving a van and a car is causing delays on the M55 towards Blackpool this afternoon.
Motorists are being urged to avoid the motorway following the incident on the westbound carriageway on the approach to junction 4.
Emergency services were called to the scene at around 10.46am, with an air ambulance deployed along with three fire engines and multiple police and ambulance crews.
Footage from the wreck shows a seriously damaged flatbed van on its side and the stricken car with debris strewn across the carriageway.
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The air ambulance reportedly left the scene at 11.21am. Details on casualties have not been confirmed at this stage.
The crash appears to have taken place in the first lane, blocking the carriageway and bringing traffic to a standstill. Lancashire Police and National Highways Traffic Officers were said to be diverting motorists via the A585 and A583.
Two lanes have since reopened, leaving one closed. Drivers are being advised to avoid the area and seek alternative routes to ease congestion while the scene is cleared.
Diversion route
Diverted traffic is advised to follow the hollow triangle diversion symbol:
- Exit the M55 westbound at J3.
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the A585 southbound towards Kirkham
- At the A585/A583 roundabout, take the third exit onto the A583 westbound towards Blackpool
- At Whitehills Park roundabout, take the third exit and continue onward towards the M55 J4 roundabout
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto the A5230 westbound to continue onward journey