Traffic chaos after garbage truck crash on M1

A number of people have been taken to hospital after a rubbish truck and cars collided on the M1. Full details.

Two people were taken to hospital following a crash involving a rubbish truck and a number of cars on the M1 at Worongary on Friday morning.

Emergency services were alerted to the incident at around 10.45am, which took place in wet conditions.

Police, ambulance crews and firefighters responded to the scene, with three southbound lanes of the motorway closed while they dealt with the incident.

A Queensland Police Service spokesman said a JJ Richards garbage truck had been involved in the crash, which saw traffic back up for a time on a two kilometre stretch between Nielsens Rd, Carrara and Elysium Rd, Worongary.

A Queensland Ambulance Service spokesperson said two patients had been taken to Gold Coast University Hospital in stable condition.

Three southbound lanes on the M1 have been blocked after this garbage truck crashed with a car on Friday just before 11am. Picture: Facebook

With further rain predicted over the weekend, Superintendent Tim Mowle from Gold Coast police appealed to motorists to take extra care on the roads.

“We ask motorists to slow down and drive to conditions when necessary,” he said.

“Be patient and considerate of other road users. Give plenty of distance between your car and the car in front for reaction time, so you can stop appropriately.

“I would also urge motorists to be aware of their surroundings and not cross flooded roadways.

“Driving through floodwaters not only puts yourself at risk but also your passengers and first responders.”

Supt Mowle said police would continue to have a significant presence on Gold Coast roads over the weekend, with Easter traffic safety operations ongoing.

“During the wet weather police will continue to be on our roads with a high visibility presence,” he said.

“If you are doing the wrong thing expect enforcement action.”