An 86-year-old Vernon woman was sent to Vernon Jubilee Hospital with a suspected back injury Wednesday morning following a three-vehicle crash, which closed Highway 97 beside Wood Lake in Lake Country.
The accident happened at 9:45 a.m. near the Teddy Bear Lodge.
A 62-year-old Vernon woman, driving a blue Ford Explorer south bound on Highway 97, was struck from behind by a blue Ford Escape and a white GMC pickup truck, when she stopped suddenly to avoid colliding with a dog crossing the highway.
Both the driver of the blue Ford Explorer and her passenger, the 86-year-old Vernon resident, were transported to Vernon Jubilee Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Emergency crews suspected that the 86-year-old passenger may have sustained a back injury as a result of the crash. Both were treated and later released from hospital.
A 47-year old Kamloops woman, and sole occupant of the Ford Escape, was uninjured.
The driver of the GMC pick up, a 48-year-old Kamloops man, and his two passengers were treated on scene for minor injuries.
The highway was closed in both directions for 30 minutes along Wood Lake to allow emergency crews to investigate and clean up the crash.
“As we head into the summer months, police would like to remind the public that the roadways through out the Okanagan will become increasingly busy with motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike,” said Cst. J.L. O’Donaghey. “Taking the extra precautions necessary, maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you and remaining vigilant on our roadways will help us reduce our incidents of collisions and improve community safety.”
No charges have yet been laid, neither speed nor alcohol are considered contributing factors in this crash. The sudden stopping and following too close are considered factors.
Police are continuing to investigate this crash, anyone with any information is asked to call Cst. Marshinew of the Lake Country RCMP at 250-766-2288.