Driver falls asleep, crashes off Highway 46 near Shandon
Central Valley driver survives 150-foot crash across dry riverbed
– A driver from the Central Valley fell asleep while commuting long distance, causing their vehicle to veer off Highway 46 near the community of Shandon in San Luis Obispo County on Friday at about 6:30 a.m., according to a post by Templeton California Highway Patrol.
The vehicle launched 150 feet across a dry riverbed, landing on its roof between two bridges.
The driver managed to extricate themselves from the wreckage and waved down help, according to Templeton CHP. No injuries were reported, and the driver was described as fortunate to survive the incident.
Templeton CHP urged drivers to remain vigilant about the risks of drowsy driving. Officials recommend getting adequate sleep before driving, taking breaks when feeling tired, and avoiding driving during peak sleepiness hours, such as midnight to 6 a.m. and late afternoon.
