A series of three injury-accidents in the span of a half hour Tuesday has prompted police to issue a warning to motorists to be more aware, especially at intersections.
“Intersections pose a higher risk and as such extra care must be taken by everyone, including motorists, cyclists and pedestrians that are entering that intersection,” said Sgt. Rick Dellebuur, senior front line supervisor/media relations at the Penticton detachment in a prepared release. “With the busy summer season and pending long weekend it is expected there will be even more traffic on Penticton roads and as such extra precautions are in order.”
All three collisions happened between 1 and 1:30 p.m.
The first took place at Naramata and Three Mile roads involving a south bound Harley Davidson motorcycle and a Plymouth van that was entering onto Naramata Road from Three Mile.
The 47-year-old Penticton man operating the motorcycle suffered injuries to his arms, legs and back and was taken to Penticton Regional Hospital for treatment.
The 31-year-old female driver of the van from Penticton was not hurt. Damage to the motorcycle was extensive.
The second accident happened at Main Street and Industrial Avenue when a semi trailer unit driven by a 44-year-old Kelowna man collided with a Honda CRV operated by an 82-year-old Oliver male.
Both the man and an 80-year-female passenger were taken to hospital.
According to Dellebuur witnesses reported the semi went through a red light while crossing Main Street on Industrial. The investigation continues.
The third incident occurred at Government Street and Carmi Avenue when a Honda Prelude and Saturn collided.
Injuries to the four occupants of the Saturn including the 18-year-old female driver from Oliver and the 40-year-old Penticton woman driving the Honda were believed to be minor.
The operator of the Honda was charged for failing to produce a driver’s licence while the other woman was charged for operating a vehicle contrary to restrictions.
Police say as a new driver she was only authorized to carry one passenger instead of three.
While the investigation is ongoing police say there is some indication the driver of the Honda may have gone through a red light.
As a result of the accidents happening in such a limited time frame it seriously stretched the emergency resources especially fire and ambulance.