The driver of an SUV is in custody after a multiple vehicle accident sent seven people to hospital.

The accident occurred about 2:30 Friday morning at the intersection of 27th Street and 48th Avenue in Vernon.

According to police, a Vernon Taxi company vehicle was travelling west on 48th Avenue when it, and an SUV, travelling north on 27th Street collided.

"The SUV continued to travel northbound and crossed the east side curb into the casino parking lot, striking two addition unoccupied vehicles," says Sergeant, David Evans.

He says the driver of the taxi and his two passengers, plus the drivers and three passengers of the SUV all received non-life threatening injuries.

Both vehicles sustained extensive front end damage.

"The driver of the SUV is currently in police custody for impaired driving related offences."

Evans says police continue to investigate the circumstances of the accident.

"It is not known at this time what all the factors are that contributed to the accident, however, alcohol was involved as it relates to the driver of the SUV.

Anyone witnessing the accident is asked to call Vernon RCMP.