A MOUNT Gambier man involved in a serious motor vehicle crash near Penola on Friday night has escaped serious injury, despite his vehicle being destroyed after crashing into a tree.
Police, paramedics and Country Fire Service volunteers were called to the Riddoch Highway at around 5.30pm to find a utility “wrapped around a tree”.
Wattle Range CFS group officer Fred Stent said the vehicle clipped another car, causing the driver to lose control, before crashing into the tree.
“The impact with the tree was so significant, the engine of the car had popped out onto the road,” Mr Stent said.
“Fortunately the driver of the other vehicle did not lose control.”
The 42-year-old sole male occupant was cut from the vehicle with paramedics fearing he may have spinal complications, however he remarkably escaped with only minor injuries.
Limestone Coast Highway Patrol Sergeant Paul Watts said the man was “very lucky” to survive the crash.
“When I first arrived on the scene and saw the vehicle, I honestly suspected it would be fatal,” Sgt Watts said.
The man was transported to hospital by paramedics after he was freed from the car.
Sgt Watts said Friday night’s incident highlighted the importance of driving to the road conditions.
“The weather on Friday night was terrible to say the least,” Sgt Watts said.
“People need to drive to the weather conditions.”
Following a spate of crashes in recent weeks, including another collision at Burrungle yesterday morning, Sgt Watts said drivers must stop taking risks.
“We have had several crashes recently involving excessive speed,” he said.
“People are taking unnecessary risks and it’s a worry because crashes are occurring that should not be.”
Sgt Watts said the highway patrol would continue to target drivers who drive over the speed limit, but also encouraged the community to identify dangerous drivers.
“Anyone who witnesses erratic or dangerous driving needs to call 131 444 immediately because then we can try and stop them before a serious accident occurs,” Sgt Watts said.
