Real Survival Stories Skidding off the Freeway: Trapped out of Sight
May 28, 2025
Matt Reum, a welder, recounts his harrowing experience of being trapped in his truck for six days after a fatal crash during a foggy winter night. He shares the terrifying moments of isolation and panic as he fought for survival, grappling with injury and despair. Matt reflects on his challenging childhood, the complexities of connection and belonging, and the mental battle between hope and hopelessness. His story highlights resilience and the transformative power of survival against the odds.
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Accidental Crash and Entrapment
- Matt Reum lost control to avoid a deer and crashed into a ravine, getting trapped in his truck wreckage beneath a bridge.
- His legs were pinned, phone lost, and he couldn't call for help despite cars passing overhead.
Trapped and Invisible
- After regaining consciousness, Matt found his legs pinned by the crushed truck and realized he couldn't reach his phone or signal help.
- He screamed for hours but was completely hidden from passing drivers above, sealing his isolation.
Dismantling Dashboard to Escape
- Using tools from his toolbox, Matt attempted to dismantle his truck's dashboard and steering wheel to free his pinned leg.
- The effort was exhausting, frustrating, yet persistent as he worked many agonizing hours beneath the bridge.