Three injured after A27 collision near Southwick tunnel

The dual carriageway has been closed after a lorry travelling eastbound hit a slow-moving people carrier, turned over and went through the central reservation.

The westbound carriageway of the A27 has been blocked by the overturned lorry while debris caused by the collision and the striking of the central barriers has forced the closure of the eastbound side as well.

Motorists are urged to find an alternative route as the road will be closed until at least 5pm, and traffic is likely to be very heavy for a period afterwards.

At 5pm it is hoped that the eastbound carriageway will reopen and that at least one lane westbound will be opened.

The A27 is closed between Hangleton and Holmbush.

It is believed that the dark coloured people carrier was travelling slowly, possibly with its hazard warning lights flashing, about half a mile east of the Southwick Tunnel when it was hit by a lorry shortly after 1pm on 25 July.

The 49-year-old male driver of the people carrier suffered suspected leg and chest injuries and was taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital in Brighton for treatment.

The 79-year-old male passenger of the car suffered serious head injuries and was flown to Southampton General Hospital.

The 44-year-old male driver of the lorry was taken to Royal Sussex County Hospital for treatment for minor injuries.

Sergeant Tony Crisp, of Arundel Road Policing Unit, said: “I would urge drivers to stay well away from the area until after 5pm as there is very heavy congestion on the A27 and adjoining roads already.

“I would like to thank drivers for their patience but we cannot reopen the A27 until it is safe to do so. Specialist equipment is being brought in to remove the lorry and the Highways Agency must also repair the central reservation.

“We anticipate this could be done by 5pm but cannot guarantee this.”

Officers are keen to speak to anyone who saw the people carrier travelling slowly or the lorry before the accident or who saw the collision happen.

Anyone with information should call 101 quoting serial 813 of 25 July or the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.