Driver On Bratt Bridge Detour Route Plunges 25 Feet Down Into Ravine

July 4, 2024

A driver who said she was taking a bridge detour route for the first time missed a curve and plunged about 25 feet down into a ravine Wednesday night in Bratt.

The adult female on her way to work told officials that she was taking the Highway 168 detour route along Bratt Road when she missed a 90-degree curve. Her vehicle left the roadway in a 90-degree curve in the 8600 block of Bratt Road. That is east of Vaughn Road at the Escambia River Electric Cooperative Bratt Substation.

The eastbound vehicle left the roadway, missed several large trees, and plunged into the deep ravine about 10:30 p.m. The woman was able to exit the vehicle on her own.

She refused medical transport by Escambia County EMS.

The woman told officials that she normally travels Highway 168 to work but took the detour on Bratt road for the first time Wednesday night after a Highway 168 bridge was closed Wednesday afternoon after a failed inspection.

The Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the crash. The Walnut Hill and Century stations of Escambia Fire Rescue responded.

NorthEscambia.com photos, click to enlarge.

Comments

4 Responses to “Driver On Bratt Bridge Detour Route Plunges 25 Feet Down Into Ravine”

  1. Byrneville on July 4th, 2024 2:30 pm

    Maybe try slowing down. Speed limit there pretty much makes sure this isn’t an issue. It’s not just a suggestion.

  2. Barbara Ryals on July 4th, 2024 2:12 pm

    We have traveled that detour for a year and are very aware that if you do not observe the speed limit,and have no personal distractions,those curves will put you in ditches and corn fields!!!!! You cannot ignore the signs of speed limits and curves!!!!!! Since we have been traveling this detour,we have seen more speeding cars that pass in inopportune spots!!!! There are also wildlife crossing the roads that you have to be fully aware,as a driver of a vehicle!!! I am sorry that this lady had this experience!!! It is mind boggling to think of what could have been a tragedy!! I am in no way admonishing this lady,just be fully aware that this route is NOT like the straight route you are normally using!!!!! From our experience of having to travel this detour,you may want to leave a bit earlier that usual!!!! Believe us,it takes getting used to drive it!!!!!

  3. Keller Method on July 4th, 2024 10:23 am

    Unfamiliar roadways/detours….. Slow down and use caution…. especially at night.

  4. anne on July 4th, 2024 8:04 am

    She must have been terrified! I could just imagine that happening. I hope some warning signs will be put up even if this is a holiday for people living out there.