ST. GEORGE — A man was injured and transported to the hospital early Saturday after rolling his vehicle multiple times on Interstate 15. Authorities said driver fatigue may be a factor in the crash.
Officers were dispatched just after 1 a.m. to a single vehicle rollover on I-15 southbound near Toquerville, just north of mile marker 28, Utah Highway Patrol Trooper Lawrence Hopper said.
Upon arrival officers found the driver injured and the man’s Ford Explorer in a ditch several feet off of the interstate.
The driver, a man in his 20s, was transported to Dixie Regional Medical Center to be treated for injuries to his spine, Hopper said.
Officers investigating the scene determined that as the man was nearing the Toquerville exit his vehicle started veering to the right. The driver responded by jerking the steering wheel sharply to the left in an attempt to avoid going off the road.
As the Ford swerved sharply to the left the man turned the wheel too far to the right, and just as he began turning the wheel back towards the left the SUV started to roll over. It continued rolling until it landed in a deep ditch several feet from the roadway.
“That SUV rolled numerous times,” Hopper said, “but since the man was wearing his seat belt at the time of the crash his injuries weren’t as serious.”
Hopper also said that fatigue may have played a role in the crash, however the incident is under investigation.
The Ford was extensively damaged and was towed from the scene.
The Washington County Sheriff’s office, Utah Highway Patrol, and Hurricane Valley Fire and Ambulance responded to the incident.
This report is based on preliminary information provided by law enforcement or first responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.
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The vehicle can always be replaced. but because of his safety belt he will be home with his loved ones. Praise the Lord !
If tired, get off the road safely and nap 10 mins then go in your way