10/23/2009 9:53:00 AM 2 minor accidents on Highway 69 bottle up traffic
A wrong-way driver on Highway 69 near Sam's Club and the new Home Depot caused two traffic collisions and this traffic backup on Highway 69.
Photo courtesy Les Stukenberg/The Daily Courier
Prescott Valley Tribune
A wrong-way driver led to multiple car collisions that backed up traffic for more than an hour Thursday afternoon on Highway 69.
Prescott Valley Police responded to a call of a vehicle traveling the wrong way at about 2 p.m. in the area near 69 and Sundog Ranch Road.
The wrong-way car, a 2000 Intrepid, was driven by a 63-year-old Prescott woman who police say was leaving the Sam's Club parking lot to travel back to Prescott. She pulled out and went the wrong way on Highway 69, traveling westbound in the eastbound lane.
As a result of her actions, there was a disruption in the flow of traffic heading into Prescott Valley. A 2002 Saturn occupied by two females, ages 72 and 47, was struck from behind by an 86-year-old male driving a 1986 Ford passenger car. This caused their vehicle to go forward and strike a motorcycle operated by a 65-year-old male.
All four individuals were treated for what appeared to be non-life threatening injuries at YRMC East, according to Prescott Valley police.
A second collision also occurred as a result. A 2004 Hyundai SUV driven by a 29-year-old male struck a 2004 Ford SUV operated by a 44-year-old male. Neither driver sustained injuries, according to reports.
Police say that all drivers and occupants were wearing seatbelts, and that the motorcycle rider was wearing a helmet.
The driver of the Intrepid was being evaluated to see if she was impaired at the time of the incident, according to police, who added that the investigation is ongoing.
"Traffic was backed up from Costco (off Walker Road and 69) to the Crossroads," Prescott Fire Capt. Jeff Knotek said. "I think drivers were just slowing down for the first one (wreck) and somebody wasn't paying attention and just kind of did the rear-ender."
Reader Comments
Posted: Thursday, November 05, 2009
Article comment by:
Stanley
We need to narrow Highway 69 down to 1 lane in each direction. Just like it was back in the 1980's. This will solve the problem.
Posted: Friday, October 23, 2009
Article comment by:
Wayne
Prescott Valley needs more roads to move people to and from Prescott. To rely on that one highway to frustrating. The cities are growing so fast but the roads can't accommodate the people.On accident, and everyone is tied up for hours. City officials need to correct the inadequate situation now not later. Prescott Valley is a new growing city and should the roads too.
