Motorists were warned by police on social media after it was reported that a number of drivers ignored the lane closure and endangered the lives of emergency services and the public.
In total, 87 vehicles were caught ignoring the restrictions and drivers will be reported.
A police spokesperson stated: “Team 3 officers responded to a multi-vehicle road traffic collision on the M6 northbound at J31 with reports of a person trapped.
“Police, fire service, traffic officers, and ambulance service all attended the scene and six people were treated for minor injuries.
“Additional police resources had to be deployed due to a small number of motorists disregarding the Red Xs in lanes three and four, jeopardizing the safety of emergency services and the public.
“87 vehicles were captured and the drivers will be reported.”
Two lanes of the motorway were closed up to Junction 31 at Salmesbury on the Northbound motorway.
The accident, which happened at 6.45pm, caused delays back to the Bamber Bridge junction and on the M61 with queues extending to Chorley.
Police confirmed that six people received treatment for minor injuries.
Traffic England reported delays of nearly an hour before all lanes were reopened by police just before 10pm.
At that time, a police spokesperson mentioned: “We have closed lanes three and four of M6 northbound due to a road traffic collision at Junction 31.
“We anticipate that the road will remain closed for some time while we clear the debris.
“In the meantime, we recommend seeking an alternative route and driving with caution, allowing for extra travel time.
“We will keep you updated on the situation, and we will notify you here once the road is fully open again. Thank you for your patience and stay safe while out and about today.”