Peninsula Rollover Reported As Man Tries To Fasten Seatbelt

SAN MATEO COUNTY, CA — Menlo Park fire officials on Tuesday warned the public of the importance of buckling up — before you hit the road. This warning comes after an area driver recently rolled his van while trying to put his seatbelt on, according to Menlo Park Fire Protection District Chief Harold Schapelhouman.

According to Schapelhouman, the man was driving on Coleman Avenue in Menlo Park late Sunday evening when he crashed.

"He reportedly said that he was trying put on his seat belt while already driving the vehicle and swerved to avoid another vehicle," Schapelhouman said in a news release.

The man, who is in his 50s but was not identified, was freed with the help of area firefighters. He managed to escape with no injuries, officials said.

Crews from Menlo Fire used "supersorb" to soak up fluids spilled after they pried the hood open an secured the battery, chief said.

"We would like to remind everyone to buckle up before starting to drive your motor vehicle," Schapelhouman said. "We see an increase in the number of vehicle collisions this time of year due to rain, less daylight and people just being in a hurry."

— Images courtesy of Menlo Fire