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Driver who crashed into oncoming car fell asleep at wheel: Campbell River RCMP

Police say it was the second incident in a week where a driver fell asleep at the wheel and caused an accident
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Crash scene on South Island Highway on Saturday after a driver fell asleep at the wheel and crossed the centre line. VIA CAMPBELL RIVER RCMP

Campbell River RCMP say a medical issue could have caused a driver to fall asleep at the wheel, cross the centre line and hit another vehicle last weekend.

Police said the driver was in a Toyota van about 1 p.m. Saturday on the South Island Highway when it crossed the line and struck another vehicle, pushing it into a power pole.

Witnesses found the van driver unconscious and called for help.

The driver was determined not to have any serious injuries. Occupants of the other vehicle also escaped serious injury.

Const. Maury Tyre said it was the second incident in a week where a driver fell asleep at the wheel and caused an accident.

“We cannot stress enough the need for people to ensure that they are fully awake and actually capable of getting behind the wheel,” he said, adding: “Lack of sleep can create a severe level of impairment that puts lives at risk.”

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