A driver has been described as the “luckiest person in the world” after surviving a terrifying motorway incident in which a wheel detached from a heavy goods vehicle (HGV) and struck his car head-on on the M6 motorway.
The wheel and tyre, believed to have come loose from an HGV travelling in the opposite direction, crossed the central barrier before smashing into the oncoming vehicle with devastating force.
Miraculously, the driver managed to steer the damaged vehicle onto the hard shoulder and exit the car. Authorities have confirmed that only minor injuries were sustained.
Near-Tragedy Averted
In a chilling twist, it was revealed that the driver’s young son had originally wanted to accompany him on the journey — and would have been seated in the very spot the HGV wheel impacted.
Thankfully, the child was unable to come along,” said an officer from the Roads Policing Unit (RPU).
“It doesn’t bear thinking about what could have happened had his son been in the car seat.”
Images of the aftermath show the car’s front end severely damaged, with the force of the impact highlighting the life-threatening potential of such a freak accident.
Investigation Underway
An investigation has been launched to determine how the HGV wheel became detached, and whether any mechanical failure or maintenance issues contributed to the incident.
The RPU added that the driver’s quick thinking and composure likely prevented further harm.
Public Caution
Motorists are reminded of the critical importance of regular vehicle maintenance, particularly for commercial vehicles where mechanical failure can have catastrophic consequences.
