Major M5, A38, A30 and A380 delays after serious crash near Exeter

Major M5, A38, A30 and A380 delays after serious crash near Exeter | Somerset LiveSkip to main content [1]

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There is major chaos following a crash on the M5 near Exeter

10:16, 23 Apr 2026Updated 10:23, 23 Apr 2026

There are major delays on the M5, A38, A30 and A380(Image: National Highways)

Motorists face severe disruption on the M5, A38, A30 and A380 following a collision near Exeter

A collision involving a motorcyclist and two cars has led to significant disruption across four major routes near Exeter. The incident was reported at approximately 8.15am on Thursday, April 23.
The collision occurred on the northbound carriageway between junctions 31 and 30, according to Devon and Cornwall Police. Consequently, extensive tailbacks have built up on the M5, A30, A38 and A380.
The M5 in remains closed northbound between J31 and J30 following a serious collision.
Emergency services are on scene.
The M5 northbound is closed within J31 Pearce's Hill Interchange (Taunton, Bristol, Honiton (A30); M5; Exeter, Okehampton, Crediton (A377) A30).
3 lanes (of 4) are also closed between J31 and J30 Sandygate Interchange (Exeter A379; Exmouth A376; Sidmouth (A3052); Exeter Services).
Devon & Cornwall Police, South West Ambulance Service, Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue and National Highways Traffic Officers are in attendance.
Motorists attempting to join the motorway at Telegraph Hill are facing delays of approximately 90 minutes. Tailbacks on the A38 stretch back beyond Exeter Racecourse, reports Devon Live [2].
Devon and Cornwall Police stated: "Police were notified at around 8.15am this morning to reports of a collision involving a motorcyclist and a car on the M5 Northbound near junction 30/31."
They continued: "The motorcyclist has been injured, injuries currently unknown. Emergency services are at the scene.
Slow moving traffic due to collision."
There are also long delays on the M5 at Junction 19. The southbound carriageway near Avonmouth Bridge is affected as traffic appears to not be moving between Junction 19 and Junction 17.
A spokesperson for National Highways said: "The collision between a cement mixer and a HGV occurred at 8.19am. Three lanes of the 4-lane southbound section were closed between junctions 18 and 19 close to the Avonmouth Bridge while work was carried out to clear some spilled concrete and dislodged timber from the HGV.
"The incident caused six miles of tailbacks and although residual delays remain, this is now improving.
Lanes 2,3 and 4 were reopened at 9.41am and following vehicle recovery and further clearance, lane 1 will be reopened.

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