Updated: Fire officials: Two drivers seriously injured in Cape Coral crash
Update:
A second crash on Del Prado at Southeast 40th Terrace occurred shortly after a Labor Day crash with injuires was reported on Cape Coral Parkway.
Several injuries were reported and firefighters from Engine 3, Rescue 3 and Ladder 1 used the Jaws of Life to remove the passenger door to remove one of the injured patients.
This crash, like the previous crash on Cape Coral Parkway, is also under investigation by the Cape Coral Police Department.
Original story:
Two people were transported to area hospitals following a two-vehicle collision Monday afternoon in south Cape Coral.
Firefighters from Ladder 1 and Rescue 1 under the Command of Battalion Chief Christopher Cox responded to the crash at Cape Coral Parkway and Triton Court just after 2 p.m. When crews arrived they found two sport utility vehicles blocking the eastbound lanes, both with significant front end damage. One of the vehicles had a fire in the engine compartment which was quickly managed by firefighters.
Paramedics from Lee County EMS and CCFD personnel treated both drivers for serious injuries. Fortunately, neither driver was trapped and did not need the “Jaws of Life” to remove them from their vehicles, officials said.
Spilled fluids, including motor oil, transmission fluid and containers of bleach in one of the vehicles were also mitigated. The crash is being investigated by the Cape Coral Police Department.
This crash follows on the heels of two fatal crashes in the last 24 hours, including a vehicle vs pedestrian crash in Port Charlotte and a major crash with multiple injuries and death at the Hendry / Lee County line earlier Monday, officials said.
The Labor Day weekend is one of the nation’s high-traffic weekends.
According to the National Safety Council, the average number of traffic fatalities during the six most recent Labor Day holiday periods was 12.6 percent higher than similar non-holiday periods (430 vs. 382 deaths). Studies have shown that seat belts, when used, are 45 percent effective in preventing fatalities among front-seat passenger car occupants.
To help ensure a safe drive, the Cape Coral Fire Department and the NSC recommend drivers:
* Establish and enforce a distraction-free zone, especially in cars equipped with electronic devices including cell phones, global positioning systems and other in-vehicle technology
* Make sure all passengers are buckled up and children are in safety seats appropriate for their age and size
* Allow plenty of travel time to avoid frustration and diminish the impulse to speed
* Drive defensively and exercise caution, especially during inclement weather
* Designate a non-drinking driver or plan for alternative transportation, such as a taxi
Source: Cape Coral Fire Department