Panthers QB Newton hospitalized after car accident

Carolina Panthers quarterback Cam Newton was hospitalized in fair condition with two transverse process fractures in his lower back and no further internal injuries after he was involved in an auto accident on Tuesday afternoon in Charlotte, N.C.

Newton’s pickup truck overturned during a crash on the Church Street bridge over I-277 near Bank of America Stadium about 12:30 p.m. with a second car. Ambulances were called to the scene and the street was closed to traffic.

Newton remained conscious at the site. Pictures showed Newton smiling while being treated before he was strapped to a stretcher and placed in an ambulance.

“Cam Newton is in fair condition and undergoing tests at Carolinas Medical Center and will remain there overnight for observation,” the Panthers said in a statement released Tuesday afternoon.

Police are investigating the cause of the crash.

The 25-year-old Newton has passed for 2,800 yards this season with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions for the Panthers (4-8-1). He has an additional 425 yards and three rushing touchdowns.

Last Sunday in the Panthers’ 41-10 win over the New Orleans Saints, Newton threw three touchdown passes.