News

Blinded by the Light: Driver crashes near Echuca

By Ivy Jensen

Nov 3, 2026

Police are warning drivers about the dangers of high-beam headlights for oncoming traffic. Photo by Contributed

Drivers are being warned about the dangers of high-beam headlights after a motorist was run off the road in Echuca early today.

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Sergeant Tony Keely of Echuca police said a man in his 20s crashed after he was blinded by the high beams of an oncoming vehicle on Mt Terrick Rd near Wharparilla about midnight.

“He told police he clipped the edge of a guard rail after being blinded by the light,” Sgt Keely said.

The Toyota LandCruiser he was driving sustained significant damage and had to be towed from the scene.

The driver suffered a head knock but did not need hospital treatment.

Drug and alcohol tests returned negative readings.

Sgt Keely said the crash should serve as a reminder for motorists to dip their headlights when approaching other vehicles.

“Motorists also need to be aware that heavy luggage and a carload of people can lift the front lights, making it appear that they are on high beam,” he said.

“If you have a heavy load or are towing a caravan, adjust your headlights accordingly because even standard lights can be quite bright to oncoming drivers.”

He urged motorists to regularly check their headlights were correctly adjusted to avoid creating a hazard for other road users.

The accident comes on the fifth day of Operation Furlong, a statewide police road blitz being held over the unofficial long weekend.

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