A serious accident involving a tractor falling from a bridge onto the M20 motorway has left the driver in a critical but stable condition. The incident occurred around 11:15 BST on Monday when a tractor traveling on the A227 overbridge near Wrotham, Kent, became detached from its trailer and plummeted onto the central reservation between junctions 2 and 3.

Emergency Response and Road Closures

Emergency services, including the Kent Police, South East Coast Ambulance Service, and Kent Fire and Rescue Service, swiftly responded to the scene. The driver was airlifted to King's College Hospital in London with severe injuries. The motorway and the A227 remain closed in both directions, causing significant traffic disruption. National Highways has advised motorists to seek alternative routes and allow extra travel time.

Investigation and Public Appeal

Kent Police have launched an investigation into the accident, initially suspecting a two-vehicle collision. They are appealing for witnesses and anyone with dashcam footage to come forward, urging them to contact the west Kent appeals line. A police spokesperson stated, "A tractor traveling on the A227 Gravesend Road became separated from its trailer and subsequently fell onto the central reservation."

Impact on Traffic and Recovery Efforts

The accident has led to long queues on either side of the bridge, with images on social media showing the tractor overturned and railings bent. National Highways has indicated that a "significant recovery and repair operation" is underway, with the M20 expected to remain closed into Monday evening for emergency repairs and resurfacing due to damage and a fuel spillage.