The M40 in Oxfordshire was closed southbound between J8A near Waterstock and J6 near Lewknor on Christmas Eve to recover an overturned lorry involved in an earlier collision.
The incident, which took place earlier on Tuesday morning between junction 7 and 6, left the HGV overhanging a footpath below, National Highways said.
In order to safely remove the vehicle, the southbound carriageway had to be closed in full between J8a and J6.
Motorists, travellers and last-minute Christmas shoppers have been urged to avoid the area if they can.
Craig Sowden, Operations Manager for National Highways’ East region, said: “This collision has left an HGV balancing precariously over a footpath used by members of the public below. We have looked at all possible options but the only way to manage this situation safely is to close the carriageway.
“We thank drivers for their patience and would advise them to allow extra time for their journeys.”
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