There are a multitude of reasons a car accident can occur. While we commonly hear about crashes that are due to thinks such as drunk driving or distracted driving, those are by no means the only driver involved reasons that motor vehicle accidents occur. Earlier this month an accident took place near Pittsburgh that is believed to be due to the driver of a vehicle falling asleep behind the wheel of the car she was driving.

The incident occurred in Carroll Township when the Buick Century a 78-year-old woman was driving hit a Jeep Patriot head-on after crossing the center line of a road. The force of the collision, which took place on Route 837, caused the Jeep to flip onto its side. After the accident things did not look good. In addition to smoke, gas was leaking from both the Buick and the Jeep.

Besides the Jeep's 76-year-old driver, a 3-year-old, who was said to be the man's grandson, was also occupying the vehicle when the accident occurred. He was secured in a child safety seat in the back seat. Despite Good Samaritans' attempts to get the man out of the Jeep, he reportedly insisted that they take care of his grandson first.

All three individuals involved in the crash were hurt in the incident. The child was taken via a helicopter to the Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC. The woman driving the Buick was also taken to a hospital, this time UPMC Presbyterian Hospital in Pittsburgh, via a medical helicopter. In addition to broken arms and legs, it was believed that she may have sustained injuries to her chest. The man who was behind the wheel of the Jeep also went to a hospital, in an ambulance.

An investigation is likely being conducted into the incident that will determine what exactly happened and why.

Source: Trib LIVE, "3 area accidents keep emergency crews busy," Stacy Wolford, July 13, 2012