A DRIVER died in a motorway accident that caused major traffic jams throughout Hertfordshire on Monday, January 27.

Police closed parts of the M1, M25 and M10 after a large goods lorry collided with several cars halfway between junctions eight and nine of the M1, near Redbourn, at about 10.40am.

Motorists were advised to avoid the area until late that evening and find alternative routes.

The M1 was closed in both directions until 9.30pm.

This meant cars were unable to access the M1 from the M25.

The M10 was closed at the Park Street roundabout to help alleviate traffic problems.

It is believed the lorry collided with a car in the northbound carriageway of the M1, before hitting the central reservation, travelling along the barrier for about 40 metres and crossing into the southbound carriageway.

The lorry came to rest on its side across the carriageway. Police suspect two cars travelling southbound then collided with the lorry. A fourth car was also involved in the collision, but it is not known what direction this car was travelling in.

One of the car drivers died at the scene and the lorry driver was taken to Luton and Dunstable Hospital. Three other people were also injured.

Any witnesses to the accident should telephone the central area road policing unit on 01707 638708.

January 28, 2003 12:30