**Significant Delays on the M4 Following Caravan Crash Near Bridgend**
Motorists travelling along the M4 faced extensive delays this afternoon after a collision involving a car towing a caravan occurred near Bridgend. The incident unfolded just before 4pm on Monday, close to the busy Sarn Services at Junction 36, causing major disruption to traffic in both directions.
Emergency personnel, including police and recovery teams, were quickly dispatched to the site of the crash. According to initial reports, the accident left one of the three motorway lanes closed to traffic, with the affected vehicles—including the caravan—being positioned on the hard shoulder. Motorists were advised to approach the area with caution, as traffic cameras captured significant tailbacks forming in the lead up to the junction.
Images released by Traffic Wales illustrated the extent of the queues as cars and lorries crawled past the accident scene. With one lane out of operation, a bottleneck quickly developed, leading to congestion that stretched for several miles. By late afternoon, travel times through the area were reported to be severely extended, with some drivers facing delays of over an hour.
The precise details regarding the cause of the collision remain unclear at this stage. However, the incident is understood to involve only the car and caravan, with no other vehicles reported to have been directly involved. There have been no official statements indicating the severity of the crash in terms of injuries, though the presence of multiple emergency vehicles sparked concern among passers-by and those following updates online.
Authorities worked efficiently to clear the scene and facilitate the free flow of traffic once again. Recovery trucks attended to the damaged caravan while police managed the closure and reopening of the affected lane. Despite their efforts, the disruption caused a ripple effect, with secondary delays reported further along the motorway as drivers attempted to find alternative routes.
For many, the crash exemplified the ongoing challenge of keeping busy motorways such as the M4 moving during peak hours. The motorway is a lifeline for commuters, holidaymakers, and hauliers alike, often leaving little margin for error when incidents occur. This latest disruption reignited discussions about motorway safety, especially concerning the towing of large caravans or trailers.
Commentators on social media were quick to empathise with those caught up in the delays, although some highlighted the importance of proper checks and safety protocols for vehicles towing caravans. During peak travel seasons, incidents involving towed vehicles can have a dramatic impact on major routes, prompting calls for both public awareness and potential policy reviews.
Motorists are reminded to stay up-to-date with the latest travel information and to consider alternative routes where possible when such incidents arise. Real-time updates are provided by Traffic Wales and local news outlets, ensuring drivers can make informed decisions during their journeys.
As the evening progressed, traffic volumes gradually eased following the removal of the vehicles and the reopening of all lanes. Despite the inconvenience experienced by many, the coordinated response by emergency services and highway officials was widely commended. Investigations into the circumstances of the crash are expected to continue, as authorities aim to establish the root cause and help prevent future occurrences.