A newly engaged pickup truck driver leaned over to kiss his fiancee and swerved, police said, causing a head-on collision that left five people injured.

Brian Shaffer, 32, and Kristie Burchik, 28, of Claysville, Washington County, were driving east on Route 40 in Donegal about 8:40 p.m. Tuesday, when their Dodge pickup crossed the center line and struck a Pontiac G6, police said.

"He leaned over and gave me a peck," Ms. Burchik said. "The next thing I know, a car is coming toward us."

Just before impact, Mr. Shaffer, who wasn't wearing a seat belt, threw himself on top of Ms. Burchik, "so I wouldn't get hurt," she said.

Mr. Shaffer was knocked unconscious and has several broken ribs; the Pontiac driver, Brian Lloyd, 35, of West Alexander, his son, Christopher, 11, and stepdaughter, Sheyenne Bizub, 10, were also flown to hospitals.

Mr. Lloyd suffered a broken arm and injuries to his hand, hip, foot and ankle and was in fair condition at Allegheny General Hospital last night. His son suffered a concussion and abdominal injuries, and Sheyenne received a cut to her hand and has a sore neck and back. Both children were in fair condition at Children's Hospital last night.

The crash marked a horrifying twist in an already surprising night for Ms. Burchik, who said she had no clue Mr. Shaffer would stop at a scenic overlook on Route 40, get out of his truck, drop to one knee and ask her to marry him.

The pair were childhood friends and neighbors in Claysville, and started dating about five months ago, she said.

"He said he knew he wanted to be with me," she said. The pair then drove a short distance down Route 40, when the crash occurred.

Ms. Burchik said she spent yesterday by Mr. Shaffer's side at UPMC Presbyterian, where he was in fair condition.

Donegal police said charges have not been filed against Mr. Shaffer.