A driver of an SUV, who was rescued from a burning vehicle on Monday evening, is now facing charges for dangerous driving causing bodily harm and impaired operation.
Const. Andrew Gamble stated on Tuesday that the 33-year-old local man was arrested following an investigation into the crash involving his sports utility vehicle and another passenger vehicle.
The serious collision occurred at the intersection of Thompson Road East and Duncombe Road in Waterford, where a Good Samaritan rushed to help and pulled the SUV driver from the flames.
West Region OPP Sgt. Ed Sanchuk mentioned on Monday that this Good Samaritan “more than likely” saved the driver’s life.
The other driver had to be air-lifted by Air Ornge to a trauma center with what Gamble described as “serious and potentially life-altering injuries.”
“This was an extremely frightening situation where two people narrowly avoided tragedy,” said Gamble in a video shared on social media.
“What makes it even more concerning is that this collision was entirely preventable. This didn’t need to happen.”
Gamble noted that incidents like this are why the OPP consistently warns against driving after consuming alcohol or drugs.
“There’s no safe level of consumption when you’re behind the wheel,” Gamble said.
“Impaired driving continues to be a leading cause of serious and fatal collisions on OPP-patrolled roads. But it doesn’t have to be.”
Gamble encouraged people to consider staying overnight somewhere, calling a designated driver, or finding alternative ways home instead of getting behind the wheel themselves.
“You can’t control the decision other drivers make but you’re always in control of your own decisions.”
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