Merced, CA (October 15, 2025) — A frightening single-vehicle crash Friday night in Merced ended with a guardrail puncturing a car leaving the driver with minor injuries.
According to the Merced office of the California Highway Patrol, officers responded late Friday night to reports of a vehicle accident. The driver apparently fell asleep behind the wheel, causing the car to drift off the roadway. Upon arrival, CHP found that a section of guardrail had pierced through the passenger side of the vehicle. Fortunately, there were no passengers in the vehicle at the time. The driver was treated for minor injuries.
In statements shared via CHP Merced’s social media posts, officials warned the public that driving while drowsy can be as dangerous as drunk driving. Facebook CHP emphasized that fatigue impairs reaction time, reduces awareness, and clouds judgment. The agency urged drivers who feel drowsy to pull off safely, rest, or switch drivers.
