New video shows truck swerving and then crashing inside M5 tunnel, causing chaos

New video has been released showing the moment a truck began swerving and then crashing into the side of the M5 East tunnel.

Heavy city-bound traffic is starting to build on the M5. Photo: 9News

The M5 tunnel has reopened overnight, now operating under speed restrictions for the morning commute a spokesman for Transport for NSW has confirmed.

Early morning commuters reported the tunnel was open as early as 4am.

The spokesman said it was unclear how long reduced speed limits would be in place for, but it would likely be for most of the day.

The incident occurred shortly before 11.30am on Tuesday, leaving the crane on its side and injuring the 29-year-old male driver, who was taken to St George Hospital in a stable condition.

It also damaged the wall panelling and sprinkler system, initially forcing the closure of the entire 4km tunnel in both directions.

Traffic chaos ensued but there was some relief for commuters, with westbound lanes reopening by 2pm ahead of the afternoon peak.

But eastbound lanes would stayed closed overnight.

The M5 East tunnel was initially closed in both directions after a crane crashed inside. Picture: 9News

The scene inside the tunnel. Picture: 9News

“All eastbound lanes remain closed and it is because they still need to do some fairly extensive repairs,” the spokesman said at the time.

“(They) will stay closed for the rest of the day with the plan to reopen first thing (Wednesday) morning.”

Motorists are being urged to avoid the area and consider using the D5 detour.

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Originally published as New video shows truck swerving and then crashing inside M5 tunnel, causing chaos