A 19-year-old driver says she is lucky to be alive after a giant sheet of ice flew off a semi-truck and crashed through her windshield while driving on Interstate 80 in New Jersey.
Terrifying Incident on I-80
- Location: I-80, New Jersey
- Date: Tuesday, February 13, 2024
- Victim: Milena Oberle, 19
Oberle, who was home from college, suffered a concussion when she was struck in the head and face by flying ice and shattered glass while behind the wheel.
“The ice on top of the truck flew up, spun in the air, and shattered my windshield—right at my face,” Oberle recalled.
Despite her injuries, she managed to safely pull over using a side window and call 911.
Extent of Injuries
Oberle described the frightening moment and the injuries she sustained:
- Scratches on her scalp from glass
- Head trauma and bumps on her forehead
- Swelling on her nose, initially feared broken
- Ice and glass in her eyes and eyelashes
“I was hyperventilating. I was freaking out,” she said.
Another Driver Injured in Similar Incident
One day later, on Wednesday, another driver, Nicola Cucciniello, suffered an eye injury when ice flew off a different truck and crashed through her windshield.
New Jersey Laws on Ice and Snow Removal
New Jersey State Police warn all drivers to clear snow and ice from their vehicles before hitting the road.
- Breaking this law results in fines of up to $75
- If injuries occur, penalties increase significantly
These laws are meant to prevent serious accidents like the ones Oberle and Cucciniello experienced.
Witnesses & Dashcam Footage Needed
Both Oberle and Cucciniello are asking for help from anyone who may have seen the incidents or captured them on dashcam video.
If you witnessed these accidents or have footage, contact New Jersey State Police.
