Fatal crash on Highway 50 underscores roadside safety warnings
One man was killed and three others injured when an SUV drifted into a group changing a tire on Highway 50, prompting officials to stress the importance of staying safe during roadside emergencies.
SACRAMENTO, Calif. —
A fatal crash on Highway 50 late Sunday night left one man dead and three others injured after an SUV drifted into a group of four men changing a tire on the shoulder of the freeway near the 34th Street off-ramp heading eastbound.
California Highway Patrol (CHP) officials are urging drivers to take extra precautions if their vehicle breaks down on the freeway.
“What we advise people is go to the shoulder initially, but put your hazards on, and keep driving to the next exit and then take that exit to get off the freeway,” said Officer Michael Harper of South Sacramento CHP.
Harper also emphasized the importance of calling for help if a vehicle cannot be moved.
“The best thing to do is call 9-1-1. Let them know exactly what’s going on; let them know where you’re at,” he said.
The shoulder of the freeway may seem like a safe place to stop, but officials warn it can be dangerous.
“It’s happened way too frequently where you get off to the shoulder and people think that’s a safe spot, where a vehicle isn’t going to drift off to the shoulder and hit them, but too many times recently that’s not been the case,” Harper said.
For drivers stranded during peak hours, the Freeway Service Patrol offers free assistance Monday through Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The service can tow vehicles off the freeway, jump-start cars, or provide gas to help drivers reach a safer location.
“They help during morning commute and afternoon commute with things just like this,” Harper said. “Getting people who are stranded on the shoulder, or who are stuck in the lanes of the freeway to a safer location.”
Drivers are also encouraged to wear high-visibility vests to increase their visibility to other motorists. The Freeway Service Patrol can be reached by calling 511 in areas they service, including Sacramento, Yolo and San Joaquin counties and major freeways.
“If you’re driving late at night, make sure you keep your eyes open for that stuff on the side of the freeway, or sometimes in the middle of the freeway,” Harper said.
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