Diggers Rest man blames dog for high-speed crash on Calder Freeway

Police are shaking their heads after a 43-year-old Diggers Rest man said his dog made him crash his car. The explanation gave the ‘dog ate my homework’ excuse a run for its money.

The aftermath of the crash on the Calder Freeway on June 3. Picture: Victoria Police

A Diggers Rest man is expected to be charged with drug and careless driving offences after crashing his car while exiting the Calder Freeway.

Travelling northbound on the freeway about 1.10pm on June 3, the driver lost control while taking the Diggers Rest exit. The vehicle left the road and crashed head-on into a sign and railing.

The 43-year-old driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries while his dog was given a lift home by police.

A police image of the crash which left a Diggers Rest man blaming his dog.

A police spokesman said the Diggers Rest man alleged his four-legged friend caused the incident.

“As the driver exited the freeway at Diggers Rest his furry friend decided she knew the way home and wanted to drive, jumping onto his lap causing the driver to lose control,” he said.

“His furry companion was uninjured and very excited to see police arrive and give her some attention.”

It is believed had it not been for the freeway railing, the car would have veered out of control onto the Calder Freeway, endangering other drivers travelling at 110km/h.

MORE NEWS

HOW TO ACCESS YOUR MELBOURNE LOCAL NEWS

MAN ACCUSED OF DRINK DRIVING WITH 5-YEAR-OLD GIRL

VANDALS TEAR UP HUME SPORT RESERVE

Police said the crash was a timely reminder that drivers could also risk a $248 fine if pets were not properly restrained while travelling.

Investigators are assessing whether the unrestrained dog contributed to the circumstances surrounding the crash, but the Diggers Rest man is expected to be charged on summons with careless driving and drug driving-related offences.

[e-mail]

@GraceMcKinnonL