A serious three-vehicle collision on the A303 near Chard, Somerset, has resulted in a full closure of the road this afternoon (Thursday, 30 July). National Highways has issued warnings of significant delays and has implemented a diversion route to manage traffic.
The closure affects both directions between the A358 at Rushton Cross and the A30 at Upottery. Drivers travelling westbound are advised to follow the hollow square diversion signs, while eastbound motorists should follow the solid circle symbols.
Emergency services remain on site conducting investigations into the collision, which occurred shortly before 2pm. Avon and Somerset Police have confirmed that two individuals were taken to hospital, with one sustaining potentially life-threatening injuries.
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A man in his 60s has been arrested on suspicion of drug driving and causing serious injury through careless driving. Authorities are appealing for witnesses to come forward, urging anyone who was in the area and may have seen the incident to contact the police on 101, quoting reference 5226213546.
Traffic monitoring service Inrix reports that, despite the closure, traffic is coping reasonably well along the affected stretch.
Motorists are advised to allow extra time for their journeys while the road remains closed for the ongoing investigation, with no clear reopening time currently available.