A man had to be cut out of a moving truck after it smashed into the center divider of State Route 52 Tuesday afternoon in the Santee area of San Diego.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the solo vehicle accident took place shortly before 1 p.m. in the eastbound lanes where the rented truck lost control and crashed into the center median. The collision crumpled the front cab of the vehicle, pinning down the driver’s legs, preventing him from being able to exit the truck.

It took emergency crews from the San Diego fire department almost 30 minutes to finally pull the man to safety, at which time he was taken by a Mercy Air helicopter to a nearby hospital for treatment of injuries of an unknown severity.

The collision forced the closure of all lanes of the westbound SR-52 as debris was scattered across all lanes, and to allow for the helicopter to land safely. A fire engine also broke down on the way to the crash site, further backing up traffic through the area.

The CHP reported that some motorists even turned around and headed west to escape the impending traffic congestion. The accident was fully cleaned out a few hours later, and all lanes were reopened by 3 p.m.

At this time there is no indication of what may have caused the accident, and San Diego police are investigation the crash. It does not appear that any illegal substances were involved, and that driver error or some kind of mechanical error was the more likely cause.

Moving trucks can be large and unruly vehicles to handle, and seemingly minor course corrections can turn into dangerous rollover accidents or collisions with nearby cars or center dividers. Such an accident would inflict painful and even fatal damage to those involved.

If you or someone you know has been in such a position, you should seek help. If you are struggling to handle the financial toll brought on you by the damages you sustained, you may be entitled to compensation to help you cover those high costs.

At AA Accident Attorneys, our San Diego accident attorneys can work to get you what you need. We are a team of experienced professionals who understand the dangers you face on California’s overcrowded roads, both as lawyers and as citizens who share the same roads and live in the same communities.

We can help you win settlement from those at fault in your accident so you are able to cover the expensive medical bills and auto repair costs that may have been placed upon you. We do not charge you a thing for our services until your case is won. Call our accident attorneys today for your free evaluation, and to learn what steps are available to you!