Snow plow driver hit by a vehicle while standing next to plow

The Susanville area office of the California Highway Patrol released information this afternoon about a vehicle vs. pedestrian incident that occurred this morning, April 3.

Lassen County was impacted by winter weather including snow and wind this morning, April 3.  The roads were snow-covered and slippery. 

According to the report, David Recasens, 61, of Beckwourth, was operating a Caltrans snowplow on Highway 395 and had pulled over on the right shoulder north of Constantia Road (south) to inspect his equipment. 

Shortly thereafter, a vehicle, spun out and collided with the rear of the snow plow.  Recasens got out of the snow plow to inspect the damage.  This was determined to be a non-injury crash. 

A few moments later, Louis Ramos, 40, of Dayton, Nevada, was driving his 2014 Chevrolet Silverado northbound on Highway 395 and lost control on the icy roadway.  As the Chevrolet began to spin out, the front of the Chevrolet collided with the left side of the snow plow and with Recasens.  Recasens was knocked down and sought protection under the snow plow.  The Chevrolet came to a stop in the roadway. 

CHP personnel were on scene immediately and called for medical aid.  Recasens was transported from the scene by helicopter.  According to the report, Ramos received no injuries, while Recasens was said to have minor injuries.