SIR — I see that our MP is looking at the subject of diversions in the aftermath of road traffic incidents (Free Press February 12).

However, given the unsuitability of local roads for large vehicles, diversions are simply not practical.

Even where a diversion might be possible the time and resources required to establish it outweigh any advantage.

The only viable solution is to ensure that a blocked road is reopened as soon as possible.

Following a crash, the first priority of police is to attend, with the other emergency services, to the needs of victims, whilst ensuring their own safety. This will almost inevitably involve a road closure.

Once casualties are clear of the scene, police need to record such evidence as will be required by the coroner or other investigating authority and which will satisfy questions from the family of victims.

Finally the road needs to be cleared of obstructions and debris before it can be reopened.

This is bound to take time but it does seem from recent experiences in West Somerset that the investigative stage of the procedure takes an unwarranted length of time.

Police must consider the very real consequential costs of a delay and take account of the distress and practical problems caused those caught up in it. Diversions exacerbate rather than mitigate these.

The A396 and local B roads are not, in many places, wide enough to allow two buses or lorries to pass so further delays are inevitable, coupled with a risk of further collisions and injuries.

Recently, for example, an ambulance attending a separate emergency was seriously delayed by the log jam of traffic on the only alternative route. This could have had fatal consequences for the victim of a heart attack.

Therefore planning and resourcing should be aimed at reopening roads speedily rather than trying to introduce a system of diversions.

Of course the best solution of all would be for drivers to take greater care and avoid creating these incidents in the first place.

John Dixon,

Periton Road,