Traffic collision on Hwy 12

   According to CHP,  November 19, 2013 around 8:30 AM they responded to a minor injury traffic collision that occurred on Hwy 12 east of Evans Road in Valley Springs.

   Kevin Cooper, (49) of Mokelumne Hill was driving a 1992 Toyota SR 5 pickup eastbound on Hwy 12 at approximately 50 MPH.

   Larry Cook, (56) of Twain Harte was driving a 2005 Ford Focus westbound on Hwy 12 at approximately 55 MPH.

   For unknown reasons, Cooper allowed his Toyota  to travel to the left of the solid double yellow lines, into the westbound lane of traffic and directly into the path of Cook's Ford.

   Mr. Cook observed the Toyota traveling into the westbound lane and steered the Ford to the right in an attempt to avoid a collision.

   The front end of the Toyota collided with the left side of the Ford.  Cook applied heavy pressure to the brakes and steered the Ford to the shoulder on the south side of Hwy 12 and stopped.

   Cook was unable to control the Toyota as a result of this collision and the Toyota left the roadway on the north shoulder of Hwy 12 where it collided with a barbed wire fence.

   The Toyota came to rest in a ditch and Mr. Cooper sustained minor injuries and was transported to Mark Twain Medical Center for evaluation and treatment.

   Mr. Cook sustained minor injuries and refused treatment at the scene. His passenger, Charlotte Trant, (52) of Twain Harte was not injured.

   Alcohol/Drugs are not considered to be a factor in this collision.