SUV Overturns on Interstate 15, Snarling Traffic

TEMECULA - An SUV overturned on Interstate 15 in Temecula today when the driver swerved off the freeway, possibly to avoid a collision with a recklessly driven tanker truck, authorities said.

The wreck happened around 12:15 p.m. on northbound I-15, near Rancho California Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.

A motorist lost control of his vehicle, which flipped over, the CHP said. What caused the crash was under investigation, but at least one witness reported that the tanker truck driver swung his rig across several lanes of traffic, flashing obscene gestures at motorists, who had to slam on their brakes or turn to avoid being hit, according to reports from the scene.

The SUV driver may have been in the truck's path, forcing him to turn sharply, the CHP said.

Officers said another witness saw a dog dart into traffic, and the SUV driver may have lost control while trying to avoid striking the canine.

The SUV overturned on the right shoulder, prompting the CHP to shut down two of four traffic lanes until an investigation is completed and the wreckage removed. Traffic was slowed to a crawl at the crash site.

The victim was able to get out of the vehicle unassisted and was treated at the scene. He apparently declined to be transported to a hospital.

No other motorists were involved in the crash.