The man's vehicle was travelling along an unsealed and unlit section of the Buchanan Highway from Top Springs to Yarralin when police allege the man fell asleep at the wheel and crashed into a cattle grid which caused the car to roll.

Police believe the man was driving intoxicated and unlicensed at the time of the crash.

Two passengers who were not believed to be wearing seatbelts sustained injuries.

One of the patients, an elderly female, was transported to Royal Darwin Hospital by Care Flight for suspected fractures and spinal injuries.

The driver sustained minimal injuries and the car sustained significant damage.

Senior Sergeant Gary Cole said all persons were lucky to escape the vehicle with their lives and limbs intact.

"This crash had the potential to be lethal. At this stage police believe speed, alcohol and fatigue were contributing factors," he said.

The male has been charged with:

While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox each Friday at 6am from the Katherine Times. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up here.