Driver sustains minor injuries in single-car rollover

The driver of a Ford pickup sustained minor injuries after his truck rolled over an embankment in East Porterville Wednesday.

The accident occurred at about 12:30 p.m. at Worth Drive, west of Bartlett Park.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the driver, identified as Gerardo Barraza, 21 of Porterville, was traveling eastbound on Worth Drive at approximately 55 mph, entering a series of sharp curves.

The CHP reports that the speed signs there advised a maximum speed limit of 25 mph.

Barraza allowed the Ford to veer off the south road edge and in an attempt to get back on the road, Barraza over-corrected and lost control of the pickup.

The Ford veered completely off the south road edge, down a steep embankment, overturned once or twice, and came to rest on its wheels in a field.

CHP Officer Mike McWain said the driver was able to get out of his vehicle on his own and was taken to Sierra View District Hospital by ambulance.

According to McWain, the property owner stated he has witnessed many accidents at that location, usually occurring because the vehicles are approaching the curve too fast.