On August 24, an elderly driver was caught on dashcam footage driving the wrong way on Interstate 15 in Spanish Fork, Utah, nearly colliding with other vehicles. Clayton Shumway, who recorded the incident, reported that the white SUV came alarmingly close to hitting his car, prompting other drivers to swerve to avoid a crash.
In response to multiple reports of the wrong-way driver, a sergeant from the Utah Highway Patrol arrived on the scene. The driver was still heading against traffic along the emergency shoulder. The sergeant intervened by crashing into the vehicle, which disabled both cars. Fortunately, the sergeant only sustained minor injuries from the collision.
Authorities later determined that the driver was elderly and “confused,” and apparently unaware of the peril they posed to themselves and others. It is still uncertain if any charges will be filed against the elderly individual for the incident.
The event spotlighted the dangers posed by wrong-way drivers, especially in busy highway conditions, and raised questions about how to assist elderly drivers who might be experiencing confusion while on the road. Dashcam footage of the incident has been made public, allowing viewers to witness the tense moments before the crash. The response from the Utah Highway Patrol highlights the quick action required in such dangerous situations to prevent potential accidents.
As of August 26, inquiries to the Utah Highway Patrol for further details on any potential legal consequences for the driver had not been answered.
Note: The image is for illustrative purposes only and is not the original image of the presented article.
