A Carthage commuter escaped uninjured after crashing into a tree on Friday afternoon.
According to State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred when the driver allegedly fell asleep at the wheel, causing the Toyota Avalon to veer from the road, flip onto its side, and smash into a tree.
The crash took place on a stretch of two-lane road near the intersection of Highway 15-501 and Red Branch Road around 12:45 p.m.
The driver was initially believed to be trapped in the vehicle, according to radio traffic. Air care was requested but canceled when the driver was safely removed and declined transport. He was able to remain on scene and was the only occupant of the vehicle.
The Toyota suffered extensive damage as a result of the wreck. The front windshield was destroyed, air bags were deployed, and the body of the vehicle was badly damaged in the front and on the passenger side.
First responders arrived on the scene to direct traffic around the crash site and clear parts of the vehicle and shattered glass from the highway.
~Article and photo by Sandhills Sentinel reporter Abegail Murphy.
