A terrifying incident unfolded on a Southern California highway when metal pipes from a pickup truck pierced the rear of a sedan. The driver managed to escape with minor injuries.

The accident occurred in Orange County. A white pickup truck loaded with metal pipes collided with a gray sedan. Following the impact, the unsecured pipes were propelled into the sedan through its back window, barely missing the driver.

Photos from the California Highway Patrol show the sedan with at least six pipes lodged in the shattered rear windshield.

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) used this incident to emphasize the importance of securing cargo. They noted that unsecured cargo contributes to hundreds of deaths each year across the country.

“Unsecured cargo causes crashes every year, leading to hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries nationwide,” a CHP statement read. They urged drivers to secure cargo using ropes, netting, bungee cords, or straps. Additionally, sturdy tarps or covers can prevent debris from flying out. Overloading vehicles should also be avoided.

Data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety highlights that road debris was involved in approximately 53,000 crashes annually between 2018 and 2023. These incidents caused an average of 5,500 injuries and 72 deaths each year.