West Hartford Police: Driver Lighting Cigarette Crashes into Utility Pole, Flips Car Over (Updated)

A 24-year-old driver, who was distracted while he was lighting a cigarette, crashed into a utility pole causing his car to flip over on South Main Street late Monday morning, according to West Hartford police.

Police said the accident occurred near the Rockledge Golf Course and the driver, David Dehaas, was wearing his seatbelt and was able to crawl out of the car. He sustained minor injuries and was transported to St. Francis Hospital.

Police said the utility pole, which is owned by Eversource, was snapped about 5 feet from its base and had to be replaced.

Dehaas’ car, a 2005 Toyota Camry, incurred heavy damages all around and was towed from the scene.

Police said Dehaas was the sole occupant of the car and the accident remains under investigation.

Photo courtesy of West Hartford Police

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