With many people out of work or working from home, and many businesses remaining closed as a method to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the roadways are less congested than ever before. This presents an opportunity that some drivers cannot resist, driving dangerously faster than posted speed limits. Unfortunately, this means that while overall accidents are down because fewer people are on the road, the accidents that do occur are resulting in more serious injuries. According to the NHTSA, in more than 25% of all fatal accidents each year, speeding was a primary cause. Speeding can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicle, reduce the effectiveness of safety equipment, and increase the stopping distance.
WEAR TV reports that a single-vehicle accident in Cantonment caused two men to suffer from critical injuries.
47-year-old Anthony Lee Hopkins and 27-year-old Devon Woodward were both rushed to Sacred Heart Hospital after being ejected from a black Ford Mustang.
According to reports, the Mustang was traveling at a high speed when the driver lost control of the vehicle. The vehicle then spun, slamming into a power pole. Neither of the victims were wearing seatbelts.
According to witness statements, the black Mustang may have been racing an older model blue Mustang just prior to the crash. Witnesses said the blue Mustang was described as a mid-90s Fastback or Fox Body.
Currently, there is not much conclusive information about the crash that is available. Troopers are asking those that may have witnessed or have knowledge of the crash to come forward.