A person is fighting for their life after their vehicle slid on ice and tumbled 40m down a bank near Evansdale this morning.
Fire crews spent more than an hour working to free the injured driver with cutting equipment before they were winched into a rescue helicopter.
A Hato Hone St John spokesman said the patient was in a critical condition.
The accident happened around 8.20am on State Highway 1, between Pryde Road and Porteous Road.
Passing nurses are believed to have stopped and scrambled down the bank to help the stricken driver.
An Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter Trust helicopter transferred the driver to hospital.
NZTA said the road was now open in both directions.
Icy roads around Otago have caused multiple crashes this morning, prompting police to advise extra caution while driving.
A van spun out on the Southern Motorway, hitting the median barrier at about 7.15am, the spokeswoman said.
The driver was shaken but not seriously injured.
However, the incident has caused delays in the northbound lanes and traffic is very congested in the area.
Police would be on site for traffic management until the van is able to be towed.
The Southern Motorway appeared to be particularly treacherous for morning commuters.
Another vehicle hit the median barrier at about 6.30am, again nobody suffered significant injuries.
Buses have also been affected.
Orbus Dunedin advised route 77/78 Mosgiel buses were running late in both directions due to delays on the Southern Motorway.
This has also affected school services travelling via Green Island.
The Ridge Runner services have been suspended until about 9am and Pine Hill buses will only use Pine Hill Rd, not divert into Liberton or Dalmore.
Conditions in Central Otago also warranted a special mention from police.
They advised drivers to take their time, remember their following distances and to drive with care.
