Eleven people have been injured in a multi-vehicle crash along Cork’s busiest commuter road this afternoon. The crash, which occurred on a westbound section of the N40 near Ballincollig shortly after 5 pm.
Between six and seven vehicles were involved in the incident, which occurred between the Poulavone and Curraheen junctions. Vehicles backed up for several kilometres along the N40 parted to allow emergency services through.
Members of the Cork City Fire Brigade and the National Ambulance Service are in attendance alongside Gardaí.
The road has been closed and is expected to remain so until shortly before midnight tonight. The closure was confirmed to CorkBeo by a spokesperson for the Cork City Fire Brigade.
Of the eleven people injured in the collision, several are understood to have sustained minor injuries and are expected to be discharged at the scene following a medical assessment.
However, a significant number of those involved will be conveyed to the hospital via ambulance for further assessment and treatment. No fatalities have been confirmed at this time.
Gardaí have sealed off the scene, and it’s understood that a technical examination will be carried out later this evening. The road is expected to reopen late tonight; however, this closure could be extended if deemed necessary by investigating Gardaí.
A Garda spokesperson confirmed to CorkBeo that local diversions have been put in place and that units remain at the scene.
The crash has led to long tailbacks on the N40, with traffic snarls reaching as far back as the Wilton roundabout. Delays are also building along the N71 Bandon road, reaching almost as far back as the Viaduct on the northbound side.
Motorists are asked to use alternative routes while the road closure is in place. It’s understood that Gardaí and traffic management crews are working to clear the current backlog along the N40.