Driver causes major crash after ‘falling asleep at the wheel’ on the M1

A SLEEPING driver caused a major crash on the M1 this morning after ploughing into the nearside barrier before being hit by another motorist.  

The serious smash happened on the M1 southbound motorway between junctions 29 and 28 in Derbyshire early this morning (April 10).  

Pictures from the scene show both motors, a white Seat and silver Vauxhall Astra, with extensive damage in the middle of the main road.  

The Roads Policing Unit of Derbyshire Police Tweeted this morning: “The M1 Southbound between J29 and J28 has three lanes closed due a serious collision.  

Update from M1. Initial enquiries suggest that driver of Seat fell asleep and crashed in to nearside barrier and the Vauxhall driver then crashed in to the back of it. Full investigation to follow, fortunately only minor injuries. Don't drive tired. #DriveToArrive https://t.co/jhEcRuqy61 pic.twitter.com/apTTimukFE

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— Derbyshire Roads Policing Unit (@DerbyshireRPU) April 10, 2022

“Only one lane running so expect delays for a while.”  

All lanes reopened at around 7.33am after emergency services cleared the scene.  

National Highways East Midlands Tweeted: “All lanes are now open and the scene is now clear. 

“Thanks for your patience. Have a safe onward journey.” 

A spokesperson for Derbyshire Police said: “Initial enquiries suggest that driver of Seat fell asleep and crashed in to nearside barrier and the Vauxhall driver then crashed in to the back of it.  

“Full investigation to follow, fortunately only minor injuries. Don't drive tired.”