Two people are recovering in hospital following an early morning collision on the M18 in Co Clare.
The driver of one of the vehicles had to cut from the wreckage by fire crews at the request of ambulance paramedics.
The incident, which involved a car and a van, occurred at around 5am in the southbound lanes between junctions 12 and 11.
Units of the fire brigade from Shannon were mobilised to the scene when first reports suggested it was closer to the town.
When it was confirmed the crash happened within the Ennis fire service response area, they were also mobilised.
Two ambulances and a rapid response advanced paramedic unit from Ennis were also sent to the incident.
Gardaí closed the motorway from junction 12 while emergency services dealt with the incident.
One casualty from each vehicle was taken to hospital however their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.
Gardaí are investigating the collision.