Vehicle rollover in Katherine

Northern Territory Police has charged a 42-year-old man with traffic offences following a vehicle rollover early this morning.

The vehicle was travelling along an unsealed and unlit section of the Buchanan Highway from Top Springs to Yarralin when police allege the man fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into a cattle grid which caused the car to roll. Police believe the man was driving intoxicated and unlicensed at the time of the crash.

Two passengers who were not believed to be wearing seatbelts sustained injuries. One of the patients, an elderly female, was transported to Royal Darwin Hospital by Care Flight for suspected fractures and spinal injuries. The driver sustained minimal injuries and the car sustained significant damage.

Senior Sergeant Gary Coles said all persons were lucky to escape the vehicle with their lives and limbs intact.

"This crash had the potential to be lethal. At this stage police believe speed, alcohol and fatigue were contributing factors," he said.

The male has been charged with:

• Mid-Range Drink Driving (.137%)

• Drive Unlicensed

• Speed and Manner Dangerous

• Drive Without Due Care

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