Turkey Crashes Through Pickup Windshield on I-96

Turkey Crashes Through Pickup Windshield on I-96 when a 19-year-old Sterling Heights man was driving eastbound in a 2022 Ford F-250 on Interstate 96 near Fowlerville Road in Livingston County at approximately 12:45 p.m. Thursday, Michigan State Police say. In a startling turn of events, a wild turkey attempting to dart across the highway collided with the truck’s front end and smashed through the glass, embedding itself atop the steering column.

The Ford’s driver, who managed to keep a steady grip on the wheel, avoided a more serious collision despite the sudden impact. Troopers noted that, “The driver was able to maintain control of his vehicle and avoided turning this into a major crash. No injuries to the driver. Turkey not so much.” Emergency responders arrived promptly, clearing glass shards and feathers from the cab before the motorist continued on his way with only his composure slightly rattled.

State wildlife officials point out that Michigan’s spring turkey hunting season kicked off in Livingston County on April 19, running through early May with exact dates varying by region. As hunters take to the fields, turkeys can become unpredictable—flying low in a bid to flee and sometimes ending up in the direct path of passing vehicles. The Michigan State Police urge motorists to exercise heightened caution during these weeks, particularly at dawn and dusk when birds are most active.

Although this incident resulted in no physical harm to the driver, he did face significant property damage. Replacing a shattered windshield on a heavy-duty pickup can cost upwards of $1,500 once labor and specialized glass are factored in. Additional expenses—such as a temporary rental vehicle, insurance deductibles, and potential towing fees—can quickly escalate the financial burden. In cases involving wildlife collisions, insurers often classify damage under comprehensive coverage, but policy limits and deductibles can still leave policyholders with out-of-pocket costs.

Victims of such sudden wildlife impacts may also experience emotional distress and anxiety, especially when the event occurs at high speeds. Even a minor startle can lead to nervousness on the road, affecting a driver’s confidence and safety afterward. While there are no medical bills in this case, the psychological effects of a life-threatening surprise can warrant compensation for mental anguish.

At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we understand the multifaceted challenges our clients face after unexpected collisions—whether with other vehicles or wildlife. We help you navigate the insurance claims process, ensuring your comprehensive coverage is fully utilized and that you’re reimbursed for all applicable expenses, including glass replacement, towing, and incidental transportation costs. Our team can also assess whether additional claims for emotional distress are warranted under your policy or through a third-party claim.

Our attorneys advocate vigorously on your behalf, negotiating with insurers to lower deductibles and maximize payouts. If coverage disputes arise, we stand ready to file suit to protect your interests. With decades of experience in accident compensation law, we will guide you through each step, from documenting the damage to closing your claim—so you can get back behind the wheel with confidence.