October 13, 2025 – Merced CHP officials report that on Friday night, officers responded to a single vehicle crash after the driver reportedly fell asleep behind the wheel. The vehicle drifted off the roadway and collided with a guardrail. Fortunately, there were no passengers and no serious injuries.

As seen in the photos, the guardrail pierced through the passenger side of the vehicle, an area that could have been fatal if anyone had been seated there. This crash serves as a powerful reminder that driving while sleepy can be just as dangerous as driving impaired.

Fatigue slows reaction time, reduces awareness, and impairs judgment. If you feel drowsy, pull over safely, rest, or switch drivers. No destination is worth risking your life or someone else’s.

Source & photos: Merced CHP