FLORENCE, Ore. (KMTR) -- A Florence-area man received minor injuries Monday afternoon when his vehicle traveled off Highway 101 about one mile south of Florence and crashed into a telephone pole. The pole broke and landed partially on his vehicle. Downed power lines caused about a 45-minute closure until utility crews shut down the power and began repairs.
According to Oregon State Police Trooper Darrell Sheets, on December 3, 2012 at approximately 5:00 PM, a Hyundai passenger car driven by Charles E. Ruffin, age 76, from Florence, was northbound on Highway 101 when Ruffin reportedly fell asleep. The car traveled off the highway and crashed into a power pole. The pole landed on the car's roof and Ruffin remained inside until Central Lincoln PUD personnel arrived, shut down the power and removed power lines to assist with extrication and begin repairs.
Ruffim was transported by Western Lane Ambulance to Peace Harbor Hospital in Florence for treatment of minor injuries before he was released. OSP cited Ruffim for Failure to Maintain a Lane of Travel.
Highway 101 traffic was stopped in both directions for about 45 minutes before one lane was open in both directions. ODOT handled traffic control in the area.
