It’s not every day that a helicopter gets hit by an SUV! Firefighters in Tennessee are responsible for a wild accident that occurred during a rescue operation. But quick thinking helped the operation continue successfully. 

Tennessee firefighters hit a helicopter with an SUV 

Uh oh, some firefighters in Tennessee have some explaining to do. During an emergency situation, a Ford Explorer associated with the South  Roane County Fire Department smashed into a medical helicopter. 

The unoccupied SUV rolled about 150 feet on the highway, smashing through the windshield of the helicopter and denting the side. According to 3B Media News, the damage caused it to be placed out of service. 

Plus, it’s a fairly new aircraft with under 100 hours of flight time. The emergency crew from the helicopter assisted the patient with a head injury in an ambulance on the way to the hospital. 

No one was injured by the collision, but firefighters are shocked. South Rowan County Fire Chief Mike Curtis shared that he has no idea how this happened. 

The 2009 Ford Explorer was on level ground when it rolled, and it was placed in park. They may recreate the scene to figure out what happened. It is unclear if it rolled due to a user error or a mechanical failure. 

Replacing a helicopter’s windshield can cost between $15,000 $40,000. Plus, it has body damage. I’m not sure who will be on the hook for this bill or if the aircraft will be considered totaled. 

Either way, this expensive accident has to be covered by someone, and hopefully, it’s easy to deal with helicopter insurance companies.