TWIN BRIDGES, Calif. – A 54-year-old San Francisco man sustained major injuries on Friday morning after being struck by a vehicle while adjusting snow chains on U.S. Highway 50 near Slippery Ford, east of Twin Bridges. The incident occurred around 10 a.m.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the man had parked his Nissan Rogue on the south shoulder of a sweeping left-hand curve and was kneeling near the left rear tire to adjust the chains. At the same time, an 18-year-old from El Dorado Hills was driving eastbound in a Subaru Impreza at speeds between 45 and 55 mph. Due to active chain controls, the maximum permitted speed for all vehicles was 25 mph. The driver lost control on the curve, causing the Subaru to collide with the parked Nissan and the man adjusting the chains. The impact propelled the man into the air, and he landed on his back. The force of the collision also sent the Nissan into the guardrail.
Two passengers in the Nissan, aged 10 and 39, sustained minor injuries and were transported to Barton Hospital. The man who was struck suffered major injuries and was also taken to Barton Hospital for treatment. Two other children in the Nissan, aged 6 and 2, were not injured. The occupants of the Subaru, two 18-year-olds and one 17-year-old, were unharmed.
CHP reported that alcohol or drugs were not factors in the incident. All individuals remained at the scene until first responders arrived. Both vehicles were totaled as a result of the collision.
This accident underscores the dangers present on mountain roads during winter conditions. Motorists are reminded to adhere to posted speed limits, especially when chain controls are in effect, and to exercise caution when stopping on road shoulders.
