In the early hours of Tuesday, a woman in Salt Lake City, Utah, experienced a terrifying incident. She fell asleep while driving, resulting in a severe car accident. Her vehicle veered off the road, collided with a fire hydrant, became airborne, rolled over, and eventually landed upright. The car also collided with two other vehicles during this series of events.
A Miraculous Escape
The woman’s survival was truly miraculous. Given the severity of the accident, it was astonishing that she emerged without any significant injuries. The occupants of the other two vehicles involved in the crash also survived, although they sustained minor injuries. They sought medical attention at a nearby hospital.
Statement from the Police and a Public Warning
The Salt Lake City Police Department released a statement on Friday addressing the incident. While acknowledging the miraculous nature of the event and the absence of major injuries, the police also took the opportunity to warn the public about the dangers of drowsy driving.
The Hazards of Driving While Drowsy
According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drowsy driving resulted in 684 deaths in 2021. These accidents often occur in the early morning or late afternoon when drivers are more prone to fatigue. In their statement, the police emphasized the importance of getting enough rest before driving and checking medications for possible drowsiness side effects. They also dispelled common misconceptions, stating that strategies such as opening windows or playing loud music are largely ineffective against drowsiness. Instead, they advised drivers to pull over and rest if they feel tired in order to avoid such horrific accidents.
