Driver using vise grips as steering wheel slams into highway wall, OK cops say
Police and firefighters responding to the scene of a highway crash were surprised to discover the driver had no steering wheel, but was getting by thanks to an unsafe workaround, Oklahoma officials say.
Maybe the Okie motorist was too busy, or a little strapped for cash to buy a replacement for their missing steering wheel, so instead it seems they dug around in their tool bag and pulled out a very questionable solution — a pair of vise grips, photos show.
“There are all kinds of cars and trucks on the road today—different makes, models, and styles. But no matter how unique, every vehicle needs the same basic parts: a body, wheels, mirrors, a motor… and a steering wheel,” the Oklahoma City Fire Department said in a July 26 Facebook post, sharing a photo of a pickup truck stuck on top of a highway wall.
“One vehicle involved in a recent multi-vehicle crash was missing that last part. Instead of a steering wheel, it had vise grips attached to the steering column,” the department said. Nobody was injured in the collision, firefighters said.
Is it silly? Is it sad? Seems like it’s a bit both. But more than anything it’s dangerous, and against the law, Oklahoma Highway Patrol said.
“For those who may not know, operating a vehicle on public roadways with vise grips instead of a steering wheel is not just a bad idea, it’s illegal. Under 47 O.S. § 12‑201(1)(a), it’s a misdemeanor to drive a vehicle ‘known to be in such unsafe condition as to endanger any person,’” OHP said. “While (vise grips) are known for their versatility, steering a two-ton vehicle on public roads isn’t one of their intended uses.”
One big question remains, and apparently not even state troopers have the answer.
“And seriously… where did the steering wheel go? How do you lose a steering wheel?” troopers said.
This story was originally published July 29, 2025 at 5:14 PM with the headline "Driver using vise grips as steering wheel slams into highway wall, OK cops say."