A multi-vehicle crash on the M42 in the West Midlands has caused a significant disruption to motorists today, with the northbound carriageway closed between Junction 5A and Junction 6.

The incident is developing, and drivers in the area are being warned to expect disruption while emergency and traffic-management crews deal with the aftermath of the collision.

The M42 is a major route through the West Midlands, meaning a closure between two closely spaced junctions can quickly result in congestion on surrounding roads.

What Happened on the M42?

The crash was reported on the northbound M42 between Junction 5A and Junction 6.

Available information describes the incident as a multi-vehicle collision. However, the full circumstances of the crash, including exactly how many vehicles were involved and what caused the collision, have not yet been confirmed.

The northbound carriageway has been closed while the incident is dealt with.

M42 Northbound Closure

The closure between Junction 5A and Junction 6 is expected to have a substantial effect on traffic moving through the area.

Drivers approaching the affected section should be prepared for delays and should follow diversion and traffic-management instructions displayed on roadside signs.

The closure is particularly significant because Junction 6 serves the Birmingham Airport, NEC and surrounding transport network.

Are There Injuries?

At the time of this update, reliable information confirming the number or severity of injuries was not available.

No fatalities should be reported unless confirmed by the relevant authorities.

Emergency services may release further information as the response develops.

Traffic Delays and Alternative Routes

Motorists should expect congestion around the affected section of the M42 and on nearby connecting roads.

Drivers who can safely avoid the area may wish to consider an alternative route, while those already approaching the closure should follow official diversion signs rather than attempting to pass through the incident area.

There are also existing roadworks and traffic restrictions around parts of Junction 6, which may add to the disruption. Current traffic information shows planned restrictions around Junction 6 and other M42 sections.

What We Know So Far

The most firmly established information is that the incident involves multiple vehicles and has resulted in a northbound closure between Junction 5A and Junction 6.

Details such as the cause of the collision, injuries, vehicle damage and how long the closure will remain in place are still developing.

Drivers should therefore treat early reports with caution as emergency services continue their work.

Latest M42 Accident Update

The situation remains live.

Traffic conditions can change quickly once vehicles are recovered and emergency crews complete their work. However, significant delays may continue even after the carriageway is reopened because congestion can take time to clear.

Further updates are expected as authorities provide more information about the collision.

M42 Accident Details

What Drivers Should Do

Anyone travelling toward the affected section of the M42 should slow down, allow extra time and follow instructions from traffic-management signs.

Drivers should not attempt to enter a closed section of motorway or approach the crash scene simply to see what has happened. Emergency crews need clear access to deal with the collision safely.

The latest traffic information should be checked before setting out, particularly for motorists travelling toward Birmingham Airport, the NEC and surrounding West Midlands routes.

Disclaimer

This report reflects information available about the M42 incident on September 12, 2026, at the time of publication. The crash remains a developing situation, and details concerning injuries, the number of vehicles, cause and duration of the closure may change as emergency services and authorities provide further updates.