Trapped in his wrecked truck for nearly 24 hours, Daniel Higginbotham and his dog, Junior, survived an ordeal that he now describes as a miracle. The 36-year-old was just five miles from home on March 4 when he lost control of his vehicle while briefly looking at his phone. His truck veered off State Route 89 near Calpine, California, plunging 30 feet down an embankment.
The crash left Higginbotham suspended sideways inside the wreckage, with his leg crushed under the steering wheel and blood rushing to his head. Unable to move or reach his lost phone, he struggled for hours to free himself before realizing he was trapped. His dog, Junior, managed to escape through a window but refused to leave his side.
Throughout the night, Higginbotham endured freezing temperatures and excruciating pain. He tried making noise by banging on the door panel and calling for help, but with his truck hidden from view, no one heard him. He fought to keep himself conscious, using all his strength to hold his head upright. His only motivation was thinking about his daughter.
By morning, he had almost given up hope of being found. Then, nearly 22 hours after the crash, a passing driver happened to spot the wreckage and called 911. Responding rescue crews arrived soon after, calling out for survivors. Hearing their voices, Higginbotham shouted for Junior, who barked and ran toward them, leading rescuers directly to his trapped owner.
Emergency crews worked for nearly an hour using the Jaws of Life and a pulley system to free Higginbotham and lift him up the embankment. He was transported to Plumas District Hospital, where he began a long recovery. His injuries included multiple fractures in his back, sternum, pelvis, and ribs. Due to severe frostbite, doctors had to amputate his right leg below the knee.
Despite the life-altering injuries, Higginbotham remains optimistic. He believes surviving the accident was a miracle and is determined to adapt. His family is now raising funds to help him transition to a wheelchair-accessible home and vehicle. Reflecting on his experience, he emphasizes the importance of hope, grateful to be alive against the odds.
