TOPPENISH -- A truck towing a trailer loaded with cattle wrecked on U.S. Highway 97 south of here on Monday evening, leaving the driver in critical condition, authorities said.

Lester H. Paterson of Pasco, 83, was being treated at Yakima Regional Medical and Cardiac Center.

About 5:30 p.m., Patterson was northbound 15 miles south of Toppenish when he lost control of his Dodge Ram pickup. The pickup left the road to the right, hitting the ditch and a culvert, according to a news release from the Washington State Patrol.

The several cattle on board were safely rounded up and hauled away, dispatchers said.

Troopers said they were investigating whether inattention and driving under the influence of alcohol contributed to the crash. Any possible charges were pending.

Patterson was wearing his seat belt, according to the news release.