Accidents January 27

Accidents January 27

MERCED COUNTY, CA – A Merced man was arrested Sunday night on suspicion of driving under the influence following a head-on collision on Highway 140 in Merced County that left three people with major injuries, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The two-vehicle crash was reported around 7:29 p.m. CHP said a 46-year-old man from Merced was driving a 2011 Toyota Prius eastbound on Highway 140 east of Rogers Road when, for reasons still under investigation, he crossed a solid double line into the westbound lane.

A 2011 Nissan Altima traveling westbound at approximately 55 mph was driven by a 25-year-old woman from Newman. The two vehicles collided head-on, CHP said. The driver and her passenger, a 30-year-old woman also from Newman, both sustained major injuries and were airlifted to Modesto-area hospitals.

The Prius driver also suffered major injuries and was transported by air ambulance to Memorial Medical Center in Modesto. CHP said all three individuals were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash.

Investigators determined the man was under the influence of alcohol and he was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI. The crash remains under investigation.

I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento car accident lawyer serving Merced County. If you or a loved one were injured in a crash caused by a negligent or reckless driver, know that you’re not alone. AutoAccident.com is one of the most trusted personal injury firms in California, and across the U.S. Our caring legal team is here to help you navigate the legal process, hold at-fault drivers accountable, and fight for the justice you deserve. Call our accident attorneys at (916) 921-6400 for free, friendly legal advice. You can also reach out through our online contact form or toll-free number at (800) 404-5400.