KPTV - FOX 12Herd of elk cause crash near Crescent

Herd of elk cause crash near Crescent

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By FOX 12 Staff - email
Photo courtesy of Oregon State Police Photo courtesy of Oregon State Police
CRESCENT, OR (KPTV) -

Here's another reminder about why it's important to pay attention and leave enough distance between cars while driving.

Oregon State Police said a herd of elk caused a crash on Highway 97 near Crescent Tuesday morning.

According to investigators, Jean Tangsrud, of North Dakota, was driving her SUV northbound when a herd of elk crossed in front of her vehicle.

As Tangsrud braked to avoid the elk, a commercial truck slammed into the back of her SUV.

The truck's driver, Gene Albert, of White City, was attempting to steer left to avoid a collision and his semi-truck came to rest partially off the highway, police said.

Tangsrud managed to maintain control of her SUV after the crash and stopped on the highway shoulder. She and her passenger were wearing their seat belts and were not hurt, investigators told FOX 12.

Albert was also wearing a seat belt and was unharmed. Troopers said they cited him for following too closely.

His truck was towed from the scene due to front end damage.

Authorities would like to remind all drivers of the possible dangers associated with animals on or near highways.

The following driving tips are offered as it relates to animal encounters on or near the highway:

  • Be attentive at all times, especially sunset to sunrise for any potential hazard on or near the highway.
  • When driving in areas that have special signs indicating the possible presence of animals/wildlife use extra caution because these signs are posted for a reason.
  • Remember that the presence of any type of animal/wildlife could also mean that others are nearby.
  • When you see an animal/wildlife near or on the roadway, reduce your speed and following distance and try to stay in your lane. Many serious crashes are the result of drivers swerving to avoid wildlife or other obstacles and they crash into another vehicle or lose control of their own vehicle.
  • When driving any vehicle, always wear your safety belt because a collision could result in serious injuries.

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