A woman described as "much loved" lost her life on the A30 near Whiddon Down while trying to escape a vehicle that had overturned after aquaplaning, an inquest has revealed. Clare Laskey, 47, from The Lizard, suffered fatal injuries when a lorry hit the Kia she was climbing out of, Exeter Coroners Court was told.
Collision and Aquaplaning
The inquest heard that Ms Laskey and her partner of 14 years were travelling to Bristol Airport on the evening of October 15, 2024. At approximately 10pm, while driving along the A30 dual carriageway near Whiddon Down, the silver Kia—driven by Ms Laskey's partner—hit standing water, aquaplaned, and overturned onto its roof.
Following the rollover, Ms Laskey's partner asked her to leave the car. He managed to climb out, but as Ms Laskey began to emerge from the overturned vehicle, a lorry collided with the Kia, according to reports from Devon Live.
Weather and Lorry Driver's Account
Exeter Coroners Court heard on July 27, 2026, that conditions on the night of the crash were wet, windy, and rainy. In a letter read out at the inquest, the lorry driver stated he was travelling along the A30 when he spotted a man waving his arms in the nearside lane. The driver said that "before he had time to think" he hit the car, which had no lights, and did not see it prior to impact. He said he was "devastated by what happened".
Emergency services were called, but despite their best efforts, Ms Laskey was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 11pm.
Family Tribute and Community Reaction
In a heartfelt tribute shared after the incident, Ms Laskey's family said: "We are devastated by the loss of our beautiful, loyal and funny daughter, partner, sister and aunt in such tragic circumstances. She will be sadly missed by us all including her friends and the amazing Lizard community. Forever in our hearts."
A wealth of tributes flooded online following Ms Laskey's passing, with many describing her as "much loved" and "always remembered".
Coroner's Comments
Alison Longhorn, Area Coroner, said: "This is a truly tragic accident. I would like to recognise the efforts of the responding emergency service personnel. It is very apparent that they made valiant efforts to try and save Clare's life."
The inquest heard that Clare passed away due to chest and lower limb injuries and there were no suspicious circumstances.
Conclusion
The death of Clare Laskey highlights the dangers of driving in adverse weather conditions and the critical moments following a crash. The coroner's report confirmed that the incident was an accident, with no other parties at fault. The family and community continue to mourn the loss of a beloved woman.
