Two vehicles collided on the E40 motorway from the coast to Brussels near Nevele on Monday evening around 19:20, resulting in a blocked motorway and queues lasting about two hours.
The traffic chaos was exacerbated by the return journeys following the long Pentecost weekend.
According to Peter Bruyninckx, spokesperson for the Flemish Traffic Centre, the traffic jam extended for about 12 kilometres inland.
A medical helicopter has landed at the scene of the collision, preceded by ambulances. The vehicles involved in the accident still needed towing.
The Traffic Centre is advising drivers to avoid the area, while long-distance traffic is advised to take alternative routes.
