Driver Walks Away from Dramatic Accident on Via Diego

Via Diego: On Thursday, December 30, 2010, at 9:44 p.m., the Lakeside Fire District received calls of an overturned vehicle in the 12400 block of Via Diego. A structural engine, a rescue company, and ALS ambulance were dispatched to the incident.

Fire Engineer Rich Smith inspects the aftermath of the accident.

On the arrival of Rescue 3 and Medic 3 (Lake Jennings Station), crews discovered a SUV that had cartwheeled after impacting a retaining wall. The vehicle had major front end damage and a partially collapsed roof. On checking the interior, no occupants were located, but crews became concerned when an empty child car seat was discovered. After crews initiated a search, they located the driver who complained of only minor injuries. Not only had the driver been properly restrained, but a driver-side airbag deployment also prevented potentially life threatening injuries. The driver also stated that there was no child in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

Crews stood-by until the vehicle could be removed from the area. Currently the accident is under investigation by the CHP.

Submitted By: Captain Mark Grow, Lakeside Fire District