Several traffic incidents were reported on the M1 motorway in England on Thursday, November 5, 2026, causing lane restrictions and delays for motorists. National Highways traffic updates highlighted collisions at different junctions, with emergency and traffic management arrangements affecting journeys in both directions.

M1 Northbound Collision Between Junctions 27 and 28

A collision was reported on the M1 northbound between Junctions 27 and 28 during the afternoon.

The incident was first highlighted around 4:01 p.m., with motorway warning signs and traffic monitoring services subsequently reporting a collision and queuing traffic.

At its worst, delays reached approximately 39 minutes. By around 6:01 p.m., traffic monitoring information indicated that delays had reduced to approximately eight minutes, although queues remained.

Collision Between Junctions 40 and 39

Another collision was reported on the M1 southbound between Junctions 40 and 39.

The incident was recorded at approximately 4:19 p.m. and resulted in the closure of one of the four lanes. Traffic authorities initially expected the restriction to remain in place until approximately 5:26 p.m.

The lane restriction was intended to allow the incident to be managed safely.

Further Collision at Junction 28

A separate collision was reported on the M1 northbound at Junction 28 at approximately 4:46 p.m.

Two of the four lanes were reported closed following the incident, with traffic monitoring information indicating that the restrictions could remain until approximately 5:41 p.m.

The collision added to the disruption experienced by motorists travelling through the motorway corridor.

Motorists Face Delays

The reported incidents created challenging driving conditions at several points along the M1. Drivers were advised to reduce speed, maintain safe distances and follow instructions displayed on motorway signs.

Motorists travelling through affected sections were encouraged to allow additional time for their journeys and check traffic information before setting off.

Latest M1 Accident Update

As of Thursday evening, November 5, 2026, traffic monitoring reports indicated that delays associated with the northbound collision between Junctions 27 and 28 had eased considerably.

The incidents between Junctions 40 and 39 and at Junction 28 had also been subject to scheduled lane restrictions.

No confirmed information was available about injuries, the number of vehicles involved or the precise causes of the reported collisions.

Further updates from National Highways and emergency services may clarify the circumstances of the incidents and any remaining traffic disruption.