The following post was written by Chris Dojka from Palmer, Alaska. It was originally submitted to our iPhone contest, but it was so enjoyable that we had to share it with our readers.
On or about March 2007, I was driving our van home down the Glenn Highway from Elmendorf AFB back to the Palmer/Wasilla valley in Alaska. The sun was shinning, the temperature was in the 20s and there was still snow on the sides of the road.
As we passed through Eagle River and neared the South Birchwood exit ramp, I noticed something in the distance in the oncoming lane. It was approaching at a high rate of speed. Keep in mind the Glenn Highway is a divided highway with two lanes in either direction. As it got closer I could see that it was a full size tandem axle car trailer. There was only one small problem; it was speeding down the highway by itself! Yes, nothing was pulling this trailer. It apparently broke free from its tow vehicle and was now free-wheeling down the highway.
It crossed the divided highway and headed straight for my van. I immediately checked my mirrors for traffic slowed down as fast as I could and swerved to avoid a head on collision with the trailer. The trailer passed within feet of the van jumped the snow berm on the side of the highway and crashed into some trees.
I regained my composure and continued the drive home. The passengers were extremely grateful of my reaction and driving skill. Looking back I’m extremely thankful there wasn’t the usual heavy rush hour traffic on the highway, otherwise the outcome could have been different.
Tags: accident, Alaska, axel, Eagle River, Elmendorf AFB, Glenn Highway, South Birchwood exit ramp, traffic, trailer, Vanpool
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I need transpoetation to my work
I would like to start a Van pool. I have a transportation company , and would like to expand my company, helping people get to their jobs.