Originally reported by Ashley Suter, WFLA News Channel 8
Images Cortesy of Florida Highway Patrol
Incident Highlights the Dangers of Road Debris and EV Fire Risks
A 24-year-old woman from Spring Hill, Florida, miraculously escaped unharmed after her Tesla Model Y caught fire following a crash early Thursday morning. The incident was reported by Ashley Suter of WFLA News Channel 8 and confirmed by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP).
What Happened on US-19
Tesla Crashes After Hitting Debris
According to FHP, the woman was traveling southbound on US-19 in Hudson around 6:50 a.m. when her vehicle struck debris in the roadway, causing her to lose control. The Tesla crossed the median and northbound lanes before stopping at the entrance of Castriota Chevrolet.
AUTHOR
Editor
POSTED ON
May 21, 2025
Vehicle Catches Fire, Driver Escapes Unharmed
Shortly after the vehicle came to a halt, it burst into flames, as reported by WFLA. Fortunately, the driver was able to safely exit the car before the fire spread. No injuries were reported.
This event underscores the potential dangers of lithium-ion battery fires, which can be triggered by external impact or structural damage.
Fire Safety Concerns for EV Owners
While electric vehicles like Teslas are engineered with high safety standards, fires involving their batteries can escalate quickly once thermal runaway begins. The incident highlights the growing importance of EV-specific emergency protocols for both drivers and first responders.
Safety Recommendations for EV Drivers
- Stay alert for road debris, especially at high speeds.
- If you hit an object and suspect damage, exit the vehicle safely and call emergency services.
- Be aware of early warning signs such as smoke, unusual odors, or dashboard alerts.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
Be the first to know about the latest articles, safety tips, real stories, and industry updates related to lithium battery fire prevention
We do not spam. You can unsubscribe anytime
