Big Rig Overturns On River Road; Driver In Critical Condition

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — One-way traffic control was in effect Friday after the driver of a big rig suffered an apparent medical emergency, causing his truck to overturn and land at the Russian River Pub near Forestville, a California Highway Patrol spokesman said.

The incident happened at about noon Friday after the driver, a 59-year-old man from Stockton, delivered grapes to Korbel Winery, CHP Office Jonathan Sloat said.

The big rig hauling two trailers was traveling eastbound when it crossed the westbound lane and ran up the embankment on the north shoulder, Sloat said. The tractor as well as the trailer directly behind it overturned, blocking the westbound lane.

Sloat said the driver was taken to Sutter Hospital in critical condition.

It was not clear if the crash resulted in any damages to the pub.

As of 2 p.m., Sloat said one-way traffic control was in effect, with no estimated time of re-opening the roadway at this time. Drivers were urged to use alternate routes or expect delays.

Anyone with information regarding this collision was asked to call CHP at 707-588-1400.

Photo by Renee Schiavone/Patch