A Wrong Way Driver Suspected of DUI Causes 3-Vehicle Crash

CBS affiliate KEYT reports that a driver suspected of DUI has been arrested after causing a three-vehicle accident early Sunday morning.

A spokesperson for the California Highway Patrol said that the crash happened along Highway 101 just south of TV Tower Road in San Luis Obispo. 

According to the statement issued by CHP Officer Miguel Alvarez,  at approximately 5:00 a.m., the suspect driver was driving northbound in the far left (southbound) lane of Highway 101. The wrong-way driver collided head-on with another vehicle in the same lane. The second vehicle, which had been traveling in the correct direction when the crash occurred, spun out of control and off the highway after the collision.

A third driver attempted to swerve out of the way of the crash but was unsuccessful. The third vehicle was also hit by the wrong-way vehicle on its left front side. The initial collision sent debris flying in every direction, including into the windshield of the third vehicle. 

The wrong-way driver continued driving the wrong way but eventually came to a stop. 

The California Highway Patrol and paramedics responded to the scene of the crash and transported one person with moderate injuries to Sierra Vista Regional Medical Center. Authorities have not released the identity of those injured or their current condition.

CHP officers responding to the scene determined that the wrong-way driver was operating his vehicle while intoxicated. The suspect was placed under arrest and taken into custody.

The crash is currently under investigation by the CHP. 

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