How to avoid M6 chaos after lorry hits bridge

The vehicle collided with the bridge between junction 33 Galgate and junction 32 at Broughton.

-->READ MORE: M6 closed in both directions over safety fears after HGV hits bridge

The M6 has now been closed in both directions and traffic is being diverted down the M55.

It could be mid-afternoon before the motorway is fully reopened.

North West Motorway Police tweeted: "The bridge engineer confirms that the closures will remain in place until props are in place.

"No ETA but it will probably be mid afternoon.

"The closures will remain in place for safety reasons."

Delays of almost an hour were reported on the M6 southbound.

Major A-roads around the Preston area were also becoming increasingly busy as motorists tried to avoid the motorway.

Crawling traffic was reported on many major routes around Preston, Garstang and Lancaster.

Tailbacks on the M6 were almost reaching Walton Summit.

One motorist in Preston said: "It's a nightmare, I've come through town to avoid the motorway but it is taking ages.

"We are just about moving."

A Lancashire police spokesman said: "Officers are currently at the scene.

"Please avoid the area and plan your journeys accordingly, we are expecting significant delays."

Road users are asked to follow the "hollow diamond" diversion route: Exit the M6 at J33, at roundabout take the first exit to join the A6 towards Blackpool.

Follow A6 until J1 of the M55. Take the M55 eastbound to rejoin the M6 at J32.

North West Motorway police later tweeted: "The M55 EB will be shut at J32 NB .

"The driver - no life threatening injuries but will remain in hospital overnight."