Quinton Brock, 19, was driving her Subaru Outback on Highway 70 in Plumas County, northern California, when she lost control during a snow storm. Despite traveling at only around 40mph (64km/h), her vehicle collided with a guardrail, which speared through the car instead of absorbing the impact as designed.
The Accident and Survival
Brock escaped with moderate internal injuries, including broken ribs. She described having to slide out under the guardrail to ensure her legs still worked. The impact caused the inside panel of the car to detach and push along with the guardrail, moving her body forward as it passed behind her.
Guardrail Safety Standards
According to the US Department of Transportation, guardrails are designed to deflect vehicles back to the roadway, slow them down, or at least reduce speed as vehicles pass. The end terminals are typically given energy-absorbing treatments to slide down the guardrail length, flattening it and redirecting it away from the vehicle.
Ongoing Safety Concerns
This incident has reignited concerns about defective guardrails. Activists like Steve Eimers, who lost his daughter in a similar accident, are lobbying US governments to replace faulty guardrails. The case underscores the importance of proper guardrail design and maintenance in ensuring road safety.
