The accident on the A38 has now been cleared and the lane reopened.
A three-car accident caused severe traffic problems between the Palm Court island and the Markeaton roundabout.
The crash, which happened at 1.50pm, closed the outside lane of the southbound carriageway.
There were only minor injuries after an Audi, Landrover and a Vauxhall Insignia were in collision.
Recovery vehicles arrived at 3.30pm and the other lane was reopened just before 4pm.
Police are investigating the cause of the crash.
