A woman is facing more than $1,000 in vehicle repairs after an incident she blames on the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT). Stephanie Mercer says unsecured road equipment flew off a TxDOT truck and struck her vehicle while she was driving on Highway 90 toward Houston in December.
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Mercer described the impact, saying a heavy base from an orange construction barrel flew out of the truck in front of her, hitting her vehicle as she traveled about 65 mph. The damage includes a significant dent and a torn bumper, which she says must be replaced.
“It took a few years off my life it felt like. It scared me,” Mercer said, recalling the frightening moment.
Despite filing a claim for compensation, Mercer says TxDOT denied it, stating that the state does not pay for property damage caused by roadway conditions. She argues that the issue wasn’t the road itself but unsecured equipment.
“If you notice, none of these barrels are secured,” Mercer said. “It’s a safety hazard. I see those bases everywhere on the road, and people are hitting them. They’re heavy.”
Mercer believes TxDOT should be responsible for ensuring equipment is properly secured, questioning why she should bear the repair costs.
TxDOT has been contacted for comment and is reportedly reviewing the incident, with a response expected in the coming days.
