VIRGIN — Two people were transported to the hospital Sunday with one person listed in critical condition following a head-on collision on state Route 9 outside of Zion National Park.
At about 3:45 p.m., the driver of a Ford Taurus, heading east on SR-9, tried to pass a motorhome near mile marker 23, Utah Highway Patrol Trooper Jesse Williams said.
When the driver of the Ford Taurus realized he couldn’t accelerate past the motorhome in time, Williams said, he slammed on his brakes and began to skid before crashing head-on with a westbound Plymouth Prowler.
The driver of the Ford Taurus had three passengers in the car, and all four people walked away uninjured, Williams said.
The Plymouth Prowler had two occupants in the convertible car.
The driver of the Prowler sustained serious injuries during the collision and was flown via Life Flight helicopter to Dixie Regional Medical Center in St. George and is listed in critical condition. The passenger was transported to Dixie Regional via ground ambulance. As this report is published, Williams said he did not know the passenger’s condition.
All six people involved in the collision are Southern Utah residents, Williams said, and were wearing their seat belts at the time of the crash.
Both vehicles had to be towed from the scene with major damage to both cars.
No citations were issued at the scene, Williams said.
Traffic was stopped in both directions for about 45 minutes, causing a backup of at least two miles in either direction.
Units from the Utah Highway Patrol, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, LaVerkin Police Department, Zion National Park rangers and Hurricane Valley Fire District were at the scene of the collision, as well as multiple ambulances.
This report is based on preliminary information provided by law enforcement or other emergency responders and may not contain the full scope of findings.
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One person was transported via Life Flight in critical condition following a head-on collision on SR-9 just outside of Zion National Park, Virgin, Utah, July 19, 2015 | Photo by Ric Wayman, St. George News Two people were injured in a head-on collision on SR-9 just outside of Zion National Park, Virgin, Utah, July 19, 2015 | Photo by Ric Wayman, St. George News Two people were injured in a head-on collision on SR-9 just outside of Zion National Park, Virgin, Utah, July 19, 2015 | Photo by Ric Wayman, St. George News One person was transported via Life Flight in critical condition following a head-on collision on SR-9 just outside of Zion National Park, Virgin, Utah, July 19, 2015 | Photo by Ric Wayman, St. George News Two people were injured in a head-on collision on SR-9 just outside of Zion National Park, Virgin, Utah, July 19, 2015 | Photo by Ric Wayman, St. George News Two people were injured in head-on collision on SR-9 just outside of Zion National Park, Virgin, Utah, July 19, 2015 | Photo by Ric Wayman, St. George News Traffic on SR-9 was at a stand still as emergency crews responded to a head-on collision just outside of Zion National Park, Virgin, Utah, July 19, 2015 | Photo by Ric Wayman, St. George News
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So sorry about this! That area where the accident happened is where all those winding curves are. I used to work everyday in Springdale and even if I was late to work I had one absolute rule- no passing in that area period! Not worth it! I do understand about slow motor homes; still not worth killing someone else or yourself for.
My thoughts are with all involved and their families tonight. ♥
If u realize ur passing attempt will not be successful gently apply the brake and pull back into the proper lane. I don’t know if “slam on the brakes while remaining in the improper lane” is in the open book test or not. Way too many idiots out there…
FUN BAG.. You said. ‘ way to many idiots out there.? I wasn’t aware there were politicians involved.. LOL.!