A Warren County sheriff’s deputy injured in a wreck early Thursday was in critical condition at University Medical Center Friday night, said Patrice Guilfoyle, spokesman for the hospital.

David Lambert, 38, had been in serious condition Friday morning. Guilfoyle said the difference between “serious” and “critical” is slight, and is issued at the opinion of the nurse on duty. It does not necessarily mean that Lambert’s condition has seriously worsened, she said.

Lambert was injured when he lost control of his cruiser, a Ford Crown Victoria, at U.S. 61 North and Oak Ridge Road. He suffered head injuries, a broken shoulder, pelvic bone and ribs and crushed hip.

Sheriff Martin Pace said, based on preliminary investigation, he believes Lambert was trying to avoid something coming at him from the right at the intersection.

Lambert is married with three stepchildren. He has been with the department since January.