A Vernon tow truck driver was nearly hit by a sliding vehicle while offering a flat tire change roadside assistance to another driver.
Vernon RCMP say the accident occurred on Highway 97 and Bailee Road.
The tow truck driver was on scene tending to a flat tire on a blue Ford Focus, pulled over on the roadside with three passengers inside.
While carrying out the tire change, a Toyota Rav 4 approached the tow truck, which had its emergency lights activated, and was unable to react in time, sliding into the rear end of the tow truck.
In turn, that collision created a chain reaction as the tow truck was pushed into the Ford Focus.
Vernon RCMP Cst. Kelly Brett said the tow truck driver was very lucky not to be injured in the accident.
The two passengers in the Toyota Rav 4 and the Focus occupants sustained minor injuries and were transported to the nearest medical facility for precautionary treatment
The accident serves as another reminder form Vernon North Okanagan RCMP for motorists to slow down during the icy road conditions and move over when an emergency vehicle is roadside, giving them plenty of space to do their job.
“As the weather continues to cool down significantly throughout the Okanagan over the next few days, the icy conditions will persist. Please slow down and give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination this holiday season,” said Brett.
newsroom@vernonmorningstar.com
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