A Robust Grill Guard Shields a Jeep from Destruction

SAN ANGELO, TX — Emergency radio channels in San Angelo buzzed with activity around lunchtime on Dec. 5, 2023, following reports of a high-speed rollover accident at the intersection of U.S. 87 and FM 2105.

Paramedics, informed that the driver of the overturned vehicle was conscious and breathing, rushed to the scene. Upon arrival, they found two vehicles involved in the incident. The red Chevrolet sedan, which had rolled over, bore signs of extensive damage, with its driver’s side door appearing as though it had been pried open by the jaws-of-life. The vehicle had been returned to an upright position before our team's arrival.

In contrast, the Jeep involved in the collision with the red Chevrolet seemed remarkably intact, thanks in part to its substantial grill guard. The impact must have been at a fairly high speed as the speed limit there is 70 mph.

Officials at the scene reported that the collision occurred when the driver of the red Chevy Malibu failed to yield the right-of-way while entering the intersection with US 87. The Malibu's driver sustained injuries and was promptly transported to Shannon Medical Center. The Jeep's driver, however, escaped the incident without injury.

The intersection of US 87 and FM 2105 is notorious for being a frequent site of traffic accidents in the area. Other high-risk locations include the W. 6th St. service road at the Houston Harte, FM 2105 at Grape Creek Rd., with Beauregard at the Bryants and Knickerbocker Rd. at Bryant tying for fourth place in terms of accident frequency. Notably, the intersections along FM 2105 lack traffic lights, a factor that may contribute to the higher incidence of collisions.

The moral of the story is be careful at these dangerous intersections and, to be almost invulnerable, drive a sturdy Jeep with a hefty grill guard when working around San Angelo drivers.