In reply to veteye: Sounds not that different to my journey from Herefordshirte to North Yorkshire two weeks ago. Miles of 50mph limits on the M5, M42 and M1 with nary a hi-viz jacket to be seen. Topped off by an accident on the M1 northbound near the M18junction which closed all three lanes.
I don't think it's simply a Bank Holiday thing (though the increased BH traffic will no doubt make it worse), it's just useless Highways Agency contractors, and f*ckwits behind the wheel.
Here's a thought: how about drivers convicted of causing accidents by dangerous driving which lead to delays like this get charged lane rental fees (like I believe utilities companies are sometimes charged) for the time it takes to clear up the mess they cause?