A single-vehicle collision involving a maroon Toyota Prius and a deer occurred on Interstate 80 West near the Heather Glen exit in Colfax, CA, today at approximately 8:49 PM. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the incident.
The California Highway Patrol reported that the collision was confirmed just a minute later, at 8:50 PM, when emergency services located the vehicle in the slow lane. The impact with the deer rendered the Toyota Prius undriveable, prompting a request for towing services shortly thereafter.
Emergency response units arrived on the scene to assess the situation and ensure the safety of other motorists. By 9:04 PM, emergency services were still present, coordinating with a towing service that was en route to remove the damaged vehicle. The scene was cleared shortly after, at 9:24 PM, allowing traffic to resume normal flow.
This incident serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of wildlife encounters on California highways, particularly during dusk and dawn when animals are most active. Drivers are encouraged to remain vigilant and reduce speed in areas where wildlife crossings are common.
While the vehicle sustained significant damage, the absence of injuries is a fortunate outcome in this situation. The California Highway Patrol urges all drivers to be cautious and prepared for unexpected events on the road, including wildlife crossings.
Motorists traveling on Interstate 80 West near the Heather Glen exit should stay aware of their surroundings and drive defensively to avoid similar incidents. The CHP continues to monitor the highways for safety and is committed to ensuring the well-being of all travelers.
As always, the California Highway Patrol encourages anyone involved in a collision or who witnesses an accident to report it immediately to the authorities for prompt assistance and traffic management.