Police have criticised irresponsible drivers who reversed up a slip road to avoid a motorway tailback.
Officers dealing with the aftermath of a high-speed crash on the M40 had to call for reinforcements to prevent further accidents taking place.
The incidents occurred after a crash on the northbound carriageway between Milton Common and Lewknor, which led to a three-and-a-half mile tailback and long delays for Bank Holiday traffic.
The accident involved two cars, one of which was believed to have struck the central reservation, damaging the barrier.
A man who suffered serious neck injuries had to be cut free from the wreckage of his car by firefighters from Wheatley and Thame, who then gave first aid.
He and three other people were taken to Oxford's John Radcliffe Hospital by ambulance. None are thought to have come from Oxfordshire.
Later, police condemned impatient motorists who flouted the law by reversing up the slip road to avoid the queues.
Insp John Ramsbottom from Thames Valley Police headquarters in Kidlington said: "Motorway regulations exist for the safety of drivers and contravening them is irresponsible and illegal."
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