NATIONAL Highways have issued a statement following traffic issues which were caused by the fatal collision on the A30 on Sunday, November 24.

A man in his 50’s, passed away from his injuries after the collision, which involved a HGV lorry and two road maintenance vehicles, one of which was occupied by the victim.

However, the diversionary routes around the incident were criticised by road users who branded them as ‘confusing’ and leading to further traffic issues, particularly with alternative routes affected by the inclement weather of Storm Bert.

One of those routes took motorists towards the A388 through Polson Bridge, which had flooded from the high water levels caused by the weather.

A spokesperson for National Highways said: “Our thoughts are very much with the families and friends of all those affected by Sunday’s tragic incident.

“Safety is our number one priority and following the incident, we worked closely with Devon and Cornwall Police to divert traffic along suitable local routes during the A30 closure.

“The signed eastbound and westbound diversions were standard, local authority agreed routes, taking traffic off the A30 at Pennygillam and Lifton Down and rejoining the A30 via the A388 and minor local roads.”

It comes as Devon and Cornwall Police continue with their enquiries into the events leading up to the incident, which saw a second road maintenance worker with non life threatening injuries.

The 51-year-old driver of the heavy goods vehicle (HGV) involved in the incident was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injuries by dangerous driving prior to the confirmation that the victim had passed away from their injuries.

A spokesperson for Devon and Cornwall Police said: “A man in his 50s, from one of the highway maintenance vehicles, sustained life-threatening injuries and was taken to hospital. Sadly he died later on Sunday evening.

“The HGV driver, a 51-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of causing serious injury by dangerous driving. He has been released on police bail pending further enquiries.”

Anyone with any relevant information and dash-cam footage is asked contact police via the website or by calling 101 quoting log 277 24/11/24.