Surface water / poor drainage / flooding causing aquaplaning

On Friday 13 June 2025, I was involved in a serious road traffic collision on the A30 between Whiddon Down and Okehampton, heading towards Exeter, due to standing water on the carriageway. (What3words - trespass.fully.yummy)

My vehicle aquaplaned, left the carriageway, and hit a fence and trees head on, coming to rest in a field. I had my two young children in the car at the time (aged 2 and 4). Police, fire, and ambulance services all attended the scene. Recovery of my car required a lane closure by police and had to be craned out of the field. It was later deemed a Category B write-off due to the severity of the damage.

Emergency service personnel at the scene informed me that this stretch of road is a known hotspot for accidents caused by standing water. Further research has confirmed this I am aware of atleast 5 accidents in the last month on this stretch of road. As someone who lives in Staffordshire, I was unfamiliar with the road and area, I had no prior knowledge of this risk. There were no adequate warning signs to indicate the danger of flooding and surface water on this road. I was a confident driver with 10 years experience, my car was well kept with recently fitted new tyres. I was driving to the weather conditions but once aquaplaning happens there is nothing you can do.

Safety concerns: This section of the A30 presents a serious and ongoing risk to road users due to inadequate drainage and lack of effective warning signage. Given that this location is known for similar incidents, I am extremely concerned that further serious or fatal accidents could occur if action is not taken. The outcome of this incident could easily have been far worse, particularly as young children were involved.

I am suggesting that National Highways: - Reviews and addresses drainage issues on this stretch of the A30 - Assesses the need for clearer and more prominent warning signage regarding surface water and aquaplaning risk

I can provide photos of the accident and police report if required.