10/12/2003

Two seriously injured in Staffordshire pile-up

At least two people have been seriously injured in a pile-up near Lichfield in Staffordshire this morning.

The initial pile-up occurred amid thick fog on the southbound carriageway of the A38 between Streethay and Fradley at around 9.45am this morning. Three coaches carrying schoolchildren, a lorry, and around 15 cars were involved.

However, it is understood that as many as 30 vehicles eventually joined the pile-up with multiple collisions occurring at the scene as motorists failed to spot the crash in time to avoid hitting debris and stationary vehicles.

At least 30 people were injured and local hospitals' A&E units were on alert to receive the injured some of whom were taken to Burton-on-Trent's Queen's Hospital.

Fire crews were initially called to a vehicle fire at the scene and it is thought that the smoke from this vehicle had further reduced visibility in the area.

One of the coach drivers trapped in the wreckage had to be cut free.

Both carriageways were closed for a time as rescue operation at the scene continued throughout the day. Police have warned motorists to avoid the area this afternoon, although the northbound carriageway was reopened.

(SP)

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