ST. GEORGE — Utah Highway Patrol authorities say drowsy driving collisions are on the rise, following two collisions that occurred Thursday afternoon.
These crashes, one occurring near New Harmony and the other near Apple Valley, both resulted from drowsy driving, UHP Sgt. Matt Noyes told St. George News
The first incident, previously reported by St. George News, occurred near New Harmony when a drowsy driver reportedly hit the back corner of a semitractor-trailer on Interstate 15.
A few hours later, at approximately 4 p.m., a collision occurred on state Route 59 near milepost 10. In this incident, authorities said a GMC Sierra truck traveling westbound drifted off onto the shoulder. The driver reportedly overcorrected, which caused the truck to travel into the eastbound lanes, where it collided with a Ford Focus. The collision caused the truck to roll onto its side.
Noyes said the truck’s driver admitted he drifted onto the shoulder due to drowsiness. He was examined on scene and transported with minor injuries to St. George Regional Hospital. The driver of the Ford Focus was examined on the scene and released.
Both were wearing seatbelts, Noyes said.
Noyes said the collision caused some traffic congestion, but the traffic was flowing. The scene was cleared by 5:40 p.m.
Washington County Sheriff’s Office and Colorado City-Hildale Police Department also responded to the scene. While he couldn’t remember who responded to provide ambulance services, Noyes said he was grateful for their help.
Noyes said he doesn’t know if it’s the heat or what the reasons are for the rise in drowsy drivers, but he said drivers need to take responsibility and pull over.
“If tired, pull over and take a power nap,” he said.
This report is based on preliminary information provided by law enforcement officials and may not contain the full scope of findings.
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