Teens injured in rollover crash in Baker County; Driver distracted by dog
By Joe Hathaway on Tuesday, August 13th, 2024 in Northeastern Oregon News
BAKER COUNTY — A recent rollover crash in Baker County serves as a stark reminder of the dangers pets can pose when traveling in vehicles. The incident, which occurred on August 2, resulted in injuries to the teen driver and two juvenile passengers.
According to Oregon State Police, the 16-year-old female driver was driving a Ford SUV on Hwy. 7 about six miles south of Baker City when she became distracted by a dog in the vehicle while driving around a corner. The SUV veered off the right shoulder, rolled down a steep 20-foot embankment, and came to rest on its passenger side.
Emergency responders, including Metro West, Baker County Sheriff’s Office, and Baker Rural Fire Department, arrived on the scene. The teen driver was transported by ambulance to a hospital for further evaluation, while the other two juvenile occupants were taken to the hospital by a family member.
No citations were issued, and the vehicle owner arranged for the SUV’s removal from the site.
Oregon State Police advise pet owners to ensure their animals are safely restrained in vehicles to prevent distractions that could lead to dangerous situations.
