New Signs Urge Drivers to Report Illegal U-Turns on A30 Hayle Bypass After Serious Crashes

Warning signs targeting dangerous driving behaviour have been installed along a notorious stretch of the A30 in Cornwall, aiming to cut down on illegal U-turns that have led to multiple serious and fatal accidents.

The new signage, introduced by Vision Zero South West and National Highways, now lines the Hayle Bypass, encouraging motorists with dashcams or other recording devices to report dangerous U-turns via Operation Snap — a Devon & Cornwall Police initiative that allows the public to submit video evidence of road traffic offences.

Operation Snap, launched in 2019, enables footage from dashcams, helmet cams, smartphones and even doorbell cameras to be uploaded directly to the police for investigation.

The move comes after years of concern about safety on the Hayle bypass. Between 2014 and 2021, eight U-turn-related collisions were recorded along the route, resulting in one fatality, five serious injuries, and 12 minor injuries. In response, a formal U-turn ban was introduced in 2021, but dangerous manoeuvres have continued despite signage and enforcement measures.

Oliver Dash, Senior Road Safety Engineer at National Highways, said:

“Safety is always our top priority. While most drivers follow the rules, there are still some who ignore enforceable restrictions — putting themselves and others at serious risk.We understand congestion can be frustrating, but performing a U-turn on a fast-moving route like the Hayle Bypass is extremely dangerous. That’s why we’ve partnered with Vision Zero South West and Devon & Cornwall Police to strengthen our efforts. These new signs are part of that push — not only to raise awareness, but to empower road users to take action when they witness dangerous behaviour.”

National Highways hopes the signs will act as both a deterrent and a call to action, encouraging responsible drivers to help make Cornwall’s roads safer.