By Scott Carlson-North Platte Post
MAXWELL, Neb.-Authorities said an Oregon man was uninjured after he drove his vehicle into a canal in Lincoln County on Tuesday.
The Lincoln County Sheriff's Office said deputies responded to the report of a vehicle in the Central Nebraska Public Power District canal in the 14000 block of South Cottonwood Canyon Rd., just south of Maxwell.
Officials said it appears the minivan, driven by Tucker Mortensen, 43, of Tualatin, Oregon, was northbound when it left the roadway and entered the canal.
Mortensen told deputies he failed to negotiate a curve and slid into the canal, but was able to exit the vehicle. Deputies said evidence at the scene corroborated his account.
Upon further investigation, deputies became suspicious that Mortensen was under the influence of liquor.
Officials said Mortensen was administered several field sobriety tests, which determined he was impaired. Furthermore, a breath test indicated he was over the legal limit to drive in Nebraska.
As a result, Mortensen was issued a citation for driving under the influence. Officials said he was not incarcerated due to possible injuries sustained in the accident.
Mortensen's injuries were not serious.
The Lincoln County Dive Team removed the vehicle from the canal.