Casualty Treated After Car Overturns On M56

Viktoria Ivanova

3 min read

Post on May 24, 2025

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Details of the M56 Car Overturn

The car overturn occurred on the M56 motorway, near junction 12, at approximately 14:30 on Tuesday afternoon. A silver Ford Fiesta was involved in the single-vehicle accident. One casualty, the driver, was trapped within the vehicle. Initial reports suggest that adverse weather conditions, including heavy rain and strong winds, may have contributed to the accident.

• Extent of Vehicle Damage: The Fiesta sustained significant damage to its roof and side, indicating a forceful impact during the overturn.
• Visibility at the Time: Eyewitnesses reported reduced visibility due to the heavy rain, making driving conditions challenging.
• Initial Assessment of Injuries: Paramedics on the scene reported the casualty sustained suspected spinal injuries and multiple lacerations.

Emergency Response and Treatment

Emergency services, including the North West Ambulance Service, Cheshire Police, and Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, responded swiftly to the incident. Firefighters worked to extricate the casualty from the wreckage using hydraulic rescue equipment, a process that took approximately 30 minutes. Paramedics provided advanced life support at the scene, including stabilization and pain management before transporting the casualty to Aintree University Hospital via land ambulance for further treatment.

• Time Taken for Arrival: Emergency services arrived within 15 minutes of receiving the initial call.
• Methods of Extrication: Hydraulic cutting tools were used to remove the vehicle's roof section to safely access the casualty.
• Traffic Management Strategies: Cheshire Police closed two lanes of the M56, implementing a rolling roadblock to manage traffic flow and ensure the safety of emergency responders.

Impact on Traffic and Road Closures

The M56 car overturn caused significant traffic congestion, resulting in major delays for motorists travelling in both directions. The road closures, which were in place for approximately three hours, led to extensive tailbacks stretching several miles. Highways England advised motorists to avoid the area and seek alternative routes.

• Reported Delays: Motorists experienced delays of up to two hours during the peak of the disruption.
• Number of Affected Lanes: Two lanes were closed, reducing the motorway's capacity by 50% in that section.
• Advice from Authorities: Highways England issued regular traffic updates via their social media channels and electronic road signs.

Advice for Motorists on the M56 and Similar Motorways

Driving on motorways requires vigilance and careful adherence to safety guidelines. This M56 incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers.

• Regular Vehicle Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is regularly serviced and maintained to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to accidents.
• Awareness of Surrounding Vehicles: Maintain a safe following distance and be constantly aware of your surroundings.
• Appropriate Speed for Conditions: Adjust your speed to suit the prevailing weather conditions and traffic flow. Never exceed the speed limit.
• Importance of Seatbelts: Always wear your seatbelt, even for short journeys. It's the single most effective safety feature in your vehicle.

Conclusion

The car overturn on the M56 near junction 12 resulted in a casualty requiring hospital treatment and caused significant traffic disruption. The incident highlights the importance of safe driving practices, especially in challenging weather conditions. The swift response from emergency services helped minimize the impact, but the event serves as a cautionary tale. Stay safe on the M56 and all motorways by driving carefully. Remember, preventing car overturns is everyone's responsibility. Report any incidents promptly to emergency services and always prioritize road safety.