Wrong-way freeway driver crashes head-on into another car; 2 hurt

A driver suspected of being drunk while speeding the wrong way on the 55 Freeway caused a head-on collision that sent two people to a hospital early Sunday, according to the California Highway Patrol.

A 2003 Mercedes-Benz C240 was seen driving against traffic on the 55 near Baker Street in Costa Mesa, authorities said.

As the car continued north on the 55, it blew past three CHP officers who had their emergency lights on, according to the CHP. Authorities estimated the Mercedes was going about 90 mph.

The Mercedes stayed on the freeway for about 15 miles before it smashed head-on into a 2015 BMW M4 just past Lincoln Avenue in Orange, according to the CHP.

The crash appeared violent enough to be deadly, but both drivers had relatively minor injuries, according to CHP Officer Florentino Olivera.

“We were surprised,” Olivera said.

Both drivers said they were in some pain, and paramedics took them to UCI Medical Center in Orange for treatment, according to Olivera.

Authorities identified the Mercedes’ driver as 20-year-old Joseph W. Almand. CHP officers arrested Almand on suspicion of driving under the influence.

He was booked into Orange County Jail and released early Monday after posting bond to cover his bail. The bail amount was not immediately available.