Three taken to hospital after three-vehicle crash near Wood Lake

An 86-year-old Vernon woman was sent to Vernon Jubilee Hospital with a suspected back injury earlier this morning following a three-vehicle crash, which closed Highway 97 near Wood Lake in Lake Country.

Const. Jesse O'Donaghey of Lake Country RCMP says police were called to the scene near the Teddy Bear Lodges around 9:45 a.m.  A 62-year-old Vernon woman, driving a blue Ford Explorer south bound on Highway 97, was struck from behind by a blue Ford Escape and a white GMC pick up truck, when she stopped suddenly to avoid colliding with a dog crossing the Highway.

Both the driver of the blue Ford Explorer and her passenger, an 86-year-old woman, also a Vernon resident, were transported to Vernon Jubilee Hospital by ambulance with non-life threatening injuries. Emergency crews suspected that the 86-year-old passenger may have sustained a back injury as a result of the crash. Both were treated and later released from hospital.

The 47-year-old Kamloops driver of the Ford Escape was uninjured.

The driver of the GMC pick up, a 48-year-old Kamloops man and his two passengers were treated on scene for minor injuries.

Highway 97 was closed in both directions for 30 minutes along Wood Lake to allow emergency crews to investigate and clean up the crash.

"As we head into the summer months, police would like to remind the public that the roadways through out the Okanagan will become increasingly busy with motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians alike," Const. O'Donaghey said. "Taking the extra precautions necessary, maintaining a safe distance between your vehicle and the vehicle in front of you and remaining vigilant on our roadways will help us reduce our incidents of collisions and improve community safety."

No charges have yet been laid. Neither speed nor alcohol are considered contributing factors in this crash. The sudden stopping and following too closely are considered factors.

Police are continuing to investigate this crash, anyone with any information is asked to call Const. Marshinew of the Lake Country RCMP at 250-766-2288.

For more information on summer safe driving tips please visit the Protect Yourself section of the BC RCMP Website or go to an ICBC Road Safety External link at www.icbc.com/road-safety/safer-drivers/high-risk