Stoke-on-Trent Traffic Disruption: What You Need to Know About the A500 Crash and Delays

A crash on the A500 D-Road in Stoke-on-Trent has caused significant disruptions for drivers this morning, as the westbound carriageway has been partially blocked. The collision occurred near Hanchurch, close to M6 Junction 15, and was first reported at around 11:40 AM on February 22, 2026.

Traffic monitoring site Inrix reported that the incident has resulted in slow-moving traffic, and congestion is rapidly building in the area. As of now, it remains unclear how many vehicles were involved or whether there have been any serious injuries. The crash has added to the ongoing challenges for commuters and travelers navigating the key route between Stoke-on-Trent and surrounding areas.

The A500 D-Road, an important route for those traveling to and from Stoke-on-Trent, is notorious for heavy traffic, especially during peak hours. Travelers heading westbound are urged to seek alternative routes where possible, as delays are expected to persist throughout the day.

Impact on Business Travelers and Tourists in Stoke-on-Trent

For business travelers, the A500 is a crucial road connecting Stoke-on-Trent to the M6 motorway and major business hubs in the region. The ongoing traffic delays will affect those heading to important meetings or appointments, especially if their schedules involve tight timings or long-distance travel. The traffic jams are expected to cause significant delays, particularly for those using the M6 and A500 junctions.

For tourists, the A500 is often used to access attractions in Stoke-on-Trent, such as the World of Wedgwood, The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery, and the Trentham Gardens. The ongoing traffic disruption might cause inconvenience for visitors heading to these locations, and travelers are encouraged to consider using public transport options or adjusting their travel plans to avoid delays.

Current Situation and Delays

As of midday, the A500 D-Road westbound remains partially blocked due to the crash, and traffic is expected to continue moving slowly through the area. According to Inrix, the slow traffic is extending back to the M6 Junction 15. The southbound A500 before the junction is also experiencing delays, with an estimated five-minute travel time for those heading towards the M6.

The situation is still developing, and authorities have advised drivers to stay updated on real-time traffic reports. The police and emergency services are on-site, working to clear the wreckage and reopen the lanes. However, it’s expected that traffic will continue to be slow for several hours as work to remove the vehicles and clear the area is carried out.

What Drivers Can Do to Minimize Disruption

For those planning to travel through Stoke-on-Trent, here are some tips to help avoid delays and navigate the area more efficiently:

1. Check Real-Time Traffic Updates: Before heading out, check traffic monitoring services like Inrix, Google Maps, or the UK Highways Agency for updates on the situation.
2. Seek Alternative Routes: If possible, consider taking alternative routes to avoid the A500. Local roads and nearby A roads, such as the A52 or A534, can help avoid the worst of the congestion.
3. Use Public Transport: If you are a tourist or commuter, using public transport might be a faster alternative to driving. Stoke-on-Trent is well connected by train and bus services that can help you avoid road disruptions.
4. Plan Ahead: For business travelers, allow extra time for travel in case of further delays or detours. Consider rebooking meetings to allow for potential interruptions in your commute.
5. Stay Informed: Drivers are encouraged to stay informed about accident clearance times, as emergency services work to clear the area and restore normal traffic flow. Updates on the closure and expected reopening times will be provided through official channels.

How to Manage Travel Delays

If you are caught in the A500 delays:

• Stay patient and ensure your vehicle’s safety. Avoid any risky maneuvers around the scene of the crash.
• If you’re late for a meeting or appointment, contact the relevant parties to inform them of the delay.
• For tourists, consider exploring nearby areas on foot while waiting for the traffic to clear or use the time to visit other local attractions.

What’s Next: Expected Road Recovery Times

Emergency teams are currently on-site, and while the exact time to fully clear the A500 D-Road is uncertain, traffic recovery efforts are ongoing. Once the crash site has been cleared and all lanes are reopened, traffic should return to normal, but rush hour is likely to cause continued delays.

The ongoing congestion means that travelers should stay updated throughout the day and make use of alternative routes where possible. For tourists, using public transport could help avoid further delays.

Key Points to Remember:

• A500 D-Road is partially blocked westbound due to a crash at Hanchurch (February 22, 2026).
• M6 Junction 15 is experiencing significant traffic delays due to the incident.
• Travelers should consider using alternative routes or public transport to avoid congestion.
• Business travelers and tourists should allow extra time for travel or delay their plans if possible.
• Five-minute delays have been reported on the southbound A500 near the M6 junction.
• Check real-time updates from services like Inrix for ongoing situation reports.

Conclusion: Preparing for Travel Disruptions in Stoke-on-Trent

The ongoing A500 crash has caused significant traffic disruptions in Stoke-on-Trent, and while emergency services are working to clear the area, travelers are advised to adjust their plans accordingly. Whether you are a tourist visiting Stoke-on-Trent’s attractions or a business traveler trying to reach a meeting, alternative routes and public transport options are your best bet to avoid further delays.

With congestion expected for several hours, real-time traffic updates and flexible travel plans are key to ensuring a smoother journey. By staying informed and prepared, travelers can minimize the impact of these disruptions and continue their travels with ease.

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