The A127 was closed London-bound at the Fairglen Interchange, due to a collision.
At least two vehicles were involved including a skip lorry and a van.
One person had to be rescued from a vehicle by firefighters.
Essex Police were dispatched to the incident. There were long delays on roads surrounding the A127 into the evening.
A spokesperson for Essex County Fire & Rescue said: “Crews attended at 3pm and rescued a casualty from a vehicle. They have now left.
“We are unable to say when the road will reopen but would like to thank people for their patience.”