Motorists are being warned of long delays in the north west of England this morning as two serious accidents cause traffic chaos on the road network.
National Highways reports that two collisions, one on the M53 and another on the M61, are causing long delays for motorists during rush hour.
The M53 in Merseyside is currently closed in both directions between J2 and J2a (Moreton Spur) following a "serious collision".
The transport authority confirmed that emergency services are in attendance, with Merseyside Police in charge of the response.
In addition to the emergency services, Traffic Officers from National Highways are also working to aid the management of congestion.
It warned that the road is "likely to remain closed for several hours" while collision investigation works are ongoing.
National Highways stated that traffic was being diverted via local routes, although traffic maps show slow-moving and stationary traffic on surrounding roads.
The incident was first reported yesterday (Sunday, March 22) afternoon, with National Highways urging motorists to allow extra time when travelling.
Separate incidents on the M53 and M61 are causing havoc for motorists this morning
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Merseyside Police stated: "We can confirm that a man has been taken to hospital following a collision involving a police car and a motorbike on the M53 on Sunday (March 22).
"Just after 3.15pm, the motorbike - suspected to be stolen and uninsured - came to the attention of patrols on Love Lane in Wallasey.
"One male got off the bike and was detained at the scene. The bike then made off from patrols and was ridden by the male rider against traffic in the direction of the M53.
"At around 3.30pm, a police vehicle was in collision with the bike on the M53 northbound slip road at junction 2 (Moreton Spur)."
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Traffic maps show drivers in Merseyside could face delays over the coming hours this morning
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The rider was taken to hospital for assessment of serious injuries, while Merseyside Police has made a mandatory referral to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC).
The M61 is also closed northbound between J9 (M65) and the M6 J30 following a collision, with Lancashire Police confirming that emergency services were still on scene.
It added: "We recommend finding alternative routes at this time and we will update you once the motorway is reopened."
National Highways has outlined a diversion route, noting that the closure is "likely to remain in place throughout the morning".
A diversion route for drivers on the M61 has been set out
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Drivers in the area are encouraged to follow the diversion route
- Exit M61 at J9
- Use the left lane to take the slip road onto the M65
- Continue on M65
- Exit at junction 1 (Liverpool/M58/Birmingham)
- On the slip road, use the right lane to follow Lancaster/Blackpool/M55
- On the roundabout, take the right lane M6N/A6
- Take the exit towards Lancaster M6/Blackpool (M55)/Bamber Bridge A6
- Stay in the left lane for M6 (North) follow Lancaster M6/Blackpool (M55)
- At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto the M6 slip road to follow Lancaster M6/Blackpool (M55)
- Join the M6