A multi-vehicle collision on the eastbound M62 in West Yorkshire left five people needing medical attention and caused major traffic disruption on October 9, 2026. Emergency services closed the motorway between junctions 22 and 23 after a car overturned. Congestion extended for miles as motorists faced severe diversions.
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service reported that nine people were involved in the multi-vehicle collision. Out of those involved, five individuals required immediate medical treatment from the Yorkshire Ambulance Service (YAS). Medical authorities have not yet officially confirmed the exact extent of the injuries sustained by the victims.
Motorway Closure and Travel Disruption
Traffic information service Inrix initially reported the total road closure between junction 22 at A672 Rishworth Moor and junction 23 at A640 New Hey Road, near Huddersfield. Subsequent updates from travel monitors described disruption extending further toward junction 24 at A629 Ainley Top, with queues reaching three miles before junction 22.
- Location: Eastbound M62 between Junction 22 (Rishworth Moor) and Junction 23 (New Hey Road)
- Incident: Multi-vehicle collision involving an overturned car
- Casualties: Five people treated by Yorkshire Ambulance Service
- Traffic Impact: Three miles of queues and major commuter delays
Emergency Response Efforts
Emergency crews rushed to the scene following reports of the overturned vehicle. They secured the area and halted all eastbound traffic to allow paramedics and fire crews to work safely. Motorists in the region were strongly advised to avoid the affected stretch of the M62 and seek alternative routes while recovery and investigation operations took place.
National Highways and local traffic authorities worked to clear the wreckage and reopen lanes quickly. Drivers experienced significant residual delays extending past the initial road closure zones as gridlock cleared slowly throughout the afternoon.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did the M62 crash happen?
The multi-vehicle collision occurred on October 9, 2026, on the eastbound carriageway of the M62 in West Yorkshire.
Which junctions were closed due to the accident?
The motorway was closed between junction 22 (Rishworth Moor) and junction 23 (New Hey Road), with heavy congestion backing up past junction 22.
How many people were injured?
Nine people were involved in the incident overall, and five required medical treatment from the Yorkshire Ambulance Service.
What caused the heavy traffic queues?
The traffic delays were triggered by an overturned car and a subsequent emergency services closure of the eastbound lanes, resulting in a three-mile queue.
Are all lanes on the M62 now open?
Emergency services gradually cleared the scene and lifted restrictions after treating the injured parties and recovering the vehicles involved in the collision.
