Story & Photos by
STEVE BENNETT

Cascade Township Fire Department, Grand Rapids, Michigan

This was a single car accident on West bound I-96 at the Burton Street overpass. The driver of the vehicle (restrained, only occupant) apparently fell asleep and careened off the road at a high rate of speed.

The vehicle traveled approximately 500 feet off the highway, hitting an embankment which launched it into the air and the vehicle rolled several times and landed like this.

The accident occurred in Cascade Township (located 10 miles SE of Grand Rapids) and the Cascade Township Fire Department responded. The female occupant was alert and talking upon our arrival.

Due to the vehicle's position we summoned a wrecker to secure the vehicle prior to extricating her. Using cables from the wrecker and equipment from our rescue truck (#7), the axle/front end was secured to the frame of the overpass. Cascade rescuers successfully extricated the female occupant from the vehicle.

Total extrication time was 30 minutes. The occupant was treated for minor injuries. Seatbelt and airbag was a major life saving factor with this patient. The bridge was received minor damage.