Man critically injured in collision

Monday, Nov. 18, 1996 | 11:59 a.m.

A 39-year-old Las Vegas man remained in critical condition today after attempting what authorities believe was a U-turn on U.S. 95 that resulted in a collision with another vehicle.

Richard Laster was speeding south on the Lake Mead Boulevard onramp to U.S. 95 about 12:15 p.m. Sunday when he steered his 1991 Infiniti across the two southbound lanes, into the dirt median and lost control, said Nevada Highway Patrol Trooper Steve Harney.

Seconds later, the Infiniti collided with a 1992 BMW in a northbound lane, sending gravel and debris flying, Harney said.

The BMW's driver, Stephanie Conley, 33, of Las Vegas, suffered serious injuries and underwent surgery at University Medical Center, authorities said.

Laster's injuries were considered life-threatening, a UMC nursing supervisor said.

Two northbound drivers escaped injury but had their vehicles dinged up by flying rocks.

Northbound U.S. 95 traffic approaching the crash was backed up for a mile and a half until after 2 p.m. as investigators cleared the wreckage.

Investigators have ruled out alcohol as a factor in the accident.

"It just looks like the man was trying to make a U-turn and lost control," Harney said. It is illegal to cut across dirt medians of freeways, a maneuver that can cause accidents and result in fines of up to $165.