A dramatic accident on the M20 near Wrotham, Kent, saw a tractor fall from a bridge onto the central reservation on Monday morning, leaving the driver in critical condition. Emergency services were on the scene within minutes, highlighting their swift and coordinated response.
Kent Police received the emergency call at 11:17am reporting a single-vehicle collision on the A227 Gravesend Road overbridge. The tractor, which became separated from its trailer, landed between junctions 2 and 3 of the M20.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service deployed four fire engines to the scene to extricate the driver, while South East Coast Ambulance Service worked alongside the Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance to airlift him to King’s College Hospital in London. Police confirmed the man remains in a critical but stable condition and that his next of kin have been informed.
A Kent Police spokesperson said: “The speed and professionalism of the emergency services ensured the driver was quickly extracted and received immediate medical attention.”
The incident caused temporary closures on the M20 – westbound between junctions 3 and 1, eastbound between junctions 2 and 3 – as well as the A227, to allow emergency crews to safely manage the scene, clear debris, repair barriers, and deal with a fuel spill. National Highways confirmed the motorway was reopened by 11:30pm.
Police are appealing for witnesses or dashcam footage to assist with ongoing enquiries, quoting reference 18-0475.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the vital role first responders play in protecting lives and keeping roadways safe during serious accidents.
