A car and a lorry were involved in a collision on the A12 which closed a lane and caused miles of tailbacks.
Essex Police closed the northbound lane of the road between junction 27 and 28 by the Weston Homes Stadium whilst they dealt with the incident.
The police said that the lane was closed due to the fact the air brakes on the lorry locked following the collision.
They advised drivers avoid the area if possible.
Traffic built up for nearly five miles, Highways England said.
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