Accidents Trigger Traffic Nightmares On The 15 Freeway

Two separate incidents on the 15 Freeway tied traffic up through Lake Elsinore Saturday, adding to Southern California's troubles.

A black Ford Ranger pickup went off the right shoulder of the road on northbound Interstate 15 south of Corona Saturday afternoon, taking out a power pole in the process, according to the California Highway Patrol.

The crash was reported at 3:10 p.m., north of Temescal Canyon Road.

The driver was trapped inside the vehicle and crews from Cal Fire, Riverside County fire and Corona fire were assisting the CHP in the rescue attempt.

Traffic was backed up in both directions on the I-15 and a SigAlert was
called, the CHP said.

Earlier in the day, a Hummer overturned on southbound Interstate 15 in Lake Elsinore, slowing midday traffic, a California Highway Patrol officer said.

The accident occurred near Diamond Drive about 11 a.m., according to the CHP.

The Hummer came to rest against the center divider, and traffic backed up to Main Street, according to the CHP. --City News Service and Toni McAllister contributed to this report.