Police are blaming fog and possibly driver error for a motor vehicle crash in the Austin Heights neighbourhood that sent a woman to hospital Wednesday night.
The incident occurred shortly before 9 p.m. when the driver car struck a retaining wall at Austin Avenue and Nelson Street, trapping herself in the vehicle. Firefighters were able to extract the woman using the Jaw of Life and Coquitlam RCMP Cpl. Michael McLaughlin said the injuries were not life-threatening.
"We are hoping she makes a full recovery," he said, adding that weather conditions likely played a role in the crash.
"It was very foggy at the time. We are working on the belief that that contributed to the cause of the collision. There is also a strong suspicion of driver error."
McLaughlin could not say whether inattention or speed were factors in the crash, but noted that these types of incidents are a good reminder to exercise caution on the road, especially this time of year.
"Speed limits are created for ideal conditions," he said. "This time of year we have slippery roads anyways. We have a lot more darkness… No matter how good of a driver you are, slowing down makes you a better driver."
@gmckennaTC
