A serious traffic disruption occurred on the A8 motorway in southeastern France on Friday, November 13, 2026, after a heavy goods vehicle overturned near Vidauban in the Var department.
The accident happened at approximately 4 a.m., around four kilometres after the A8/A57 junction, near kilometre point 103.7. The truck reportedly came to rest across the carriageway, making it impossible for other vehicles to pass safely.
The incident prompted an emergency traffic response and the temporary closure of the A8 in the direction of Italy. Motorists travelling from Aix-en-Provence and Marseille towards Nice and the Italian border experienced significant delays as authorities arranged a diversion.
Drivers were directed off the motorway near Le Cannet-des-Maures, with alternative routes using local roads, including the DN7, to rejoin the A8 near Le Muy.
Specialist recovery teams were called to remove the overturned truck. A crane was used to lift the vehicle back onto its wheels at approximately 7:40 a.m. Crews subsequently worked to clear debris and assess damage to roadside safety barriers.
According to traffic updates, the affected sections of the A8 and A57 reopened at around 9 a.m. However, the left-hand lane remained temporarily closed while repairs to damaged safety barriers continued.
The accident caused substantial morning congestion, particularly for motorists heading towards Nice and Italy.
Authorities had not provided a confirmed explanation for why the truck overturned. Further details about injuries were not established in the available reports.
Motorists were advised to remain alert, follow traffic instructions and allow additional travel time while repair work continued.