INDIANAPOLIS, IN – In a stunning tale of endurance and survival, an Indiana woman was rescued after spending nearly a week trapped inside her wrecked car. Briana Castle, 41, was headed to visit a friend when she dozed off at the wheel, causing her car to plunge into a ditch. Despite being unable to escape or flag down passing vehicles, Castle remained alive by using her sweatshirt to collect water from the ditch to drink.
Castle’s father expressed his amazement at her survival, noting her ability to persevere despite the pain from her injuries. For six long days, Castle clung to life, fully conscious and aware of her dire predicament.
Her incredible survival story took a turn for the better when a drainage company worker discovered her vehicle. The worker informed his boss, the local fire chief, who promptly arrived at the scene. The fire chief initially believed Castle was mistaken about the time she had spent trapped, but she was coherent and fully aware of the severity of her injuries.
Castle’s experience underscores the risks associated with drowsy driving, especially in the period following daylight saving time adjustments. Statistics from AAA reveal that drowsy driving contributes to roughly 18% of traffic fatalities. Her crash is reminiscent of another Indiana incident where Matt Ree survived nearly a week trapped in his overturned truck, relying solely on rainwater until his rescue.
Despite sustaining several broken bones and facing the possibility of surgery, Castle’s family is overjoyed that she is finally out of the car and on the road to recovery. This incident serves as a powerful reminder of the critical need to remain vigilant and well-rested while driving.