Breaking down the Arizona Fatal offroad recovery

Video produced with permission from the woods family.
PR Director Justin King walks us through the recovery forces at play in Arizona that ultimately killed Ryan Woods. This video will demonstrate some hitches that should never be used for recovery, and demonstrate just some of the gear that is actually rated for recovering vehicles.
Kinetic recovery ropes, Gatorjaw shackles, Safe-Xtract gear, Factor 55 gear, all have very high WLL (working load limit) gear designed for safe vehicle recovery.
Please seek training from an I4WDTA trainer if you're doing offroad recovery work as a volunteer or paid profession. Please open your mind to adapting to new ways to safely recover vehicles. Going in and "flooring it" to get onto your next job is just going to get someone killed.
Stop using trailer hitches and tow balls!
Please share far and wide so nobody else has to die when they get stuck offroad.

[@jeffreycoombs9485]

I'm guilty of using my tow hitch to recover trucks and trailers. I think for me it's a case of you don't know what you don't know, and when you find out, it's too late. I'm glad I found this video and really appreciate Ryan's wife for allowing you to use their story to educate others on the dangers. I am very sorry for her loss, but incredible that she see's the possibility to help others despite her grief. Quite a woman! I'm ordering the right tools ASAP.

[@DirtandoilUTAH]

Well said

[@MorgellonsDelusion]

Well said.

[@cyberbully3704]

Well said

[@smallfgb]

100% she probably saved me. Been doing this wrong getting lucky

[@TheLittlered1961]

Very sad but very rare. Straps are the most dangerous. More stretch, more dangerous. Drop hitches are up there too. Longer the hitch, more torque that is applied. It is called leverage. I do not like either. I prefer my winch. Not 100% safe, but safer than kinetic force.

[@bernecomp]

Holy crap. I've been dancing with death for years and I didn't even know it. Thank you so much for this video. Lives are going to be saved.

[@ColemanCanna]

Ya same here. i worked with cranes for many years but never have i thought about this when coming to pulling something stuck out.

[@Freddy_Confetti]

Only reason this happened is bc it was a drop hitch

[@gsxrgirl2007]

@@Freddy_Confetti as he clearly explained, it could have happened on a regular hitch too. Don’t fuck around and just do it right, plain and simple.

[@Slot_daddy]

@crippledspiderman Towing equipment is not recovery equipment… yes the hitch broke but the balls as he said are not rated for that and if they happen to be rated close , they aren’t meant to be shock loaded.

[@charlesbosse9669]

I hope so. I've seen people try to get a heavy truck unstuck by backing up and trying to get a bit of a running start,I've never thought this is a good method. It's very dangerous and ineffective. Something is bound to break by doing it this way. I think it's a foolish way of doing things. Tge pulling vehicle needs to pull forward until the tow strap is tight,and then both vehicles give the goose. I've had to do this many times,and it generally will work all the time. But a running start to snatch it out of there us never a good idea. I know of a guy using a climbing rope to do this,when they tie the lnots,they put a big stick in there so the knots can be untied when finished. Well it didn't work,the rope broke and the stick went flying through the air and hit this poor guy in the head and killed him,I'm afraid. I didn't know him,I just know the story. This video is great info. I'm glad I seen it. God bless you all,and be very careful when doing these things. I've never heard of a hitch breaking like this one did, it's very scary.

[@jtmachete]

I've pulled and been pulled out dozens, if not hundreds of times with a ball hitch. NO MORE! Thanks for this wake up call

[@andrewk8636]

Static strap is the bigger factor. In this case the drop hitch broke because leverage but in any case never recover vehicles with static straps. Use kinetic ropes because they stretch and absorb shock

[@renenowicki]

My daughter’s boyfriend goes off roading. Gifted him a kinetic recovery rope with soft shackles. Peace of mind. Thank you for this video. A lot of safety and awareness has come from his sacrifice. I wish the family comfort.

[@Steven-gv1ke]

A soft shackle will still fly through a windshield. There is a video of a guy in a jeep who had that happen to him. They are just "less deadly".

[@quantumtechcrypto7080]

Less deadly is better than deadly in my book and with that awareness brings adaptability

[@kevins971]

@@quantumtechcrypto7080”less deadly is better than deadly” sooo..? Deadly is better than deadly? Les deadly is still deadly, it’s in the name.

[@greywolf2809]

Your a good parent.

[@buffalowt]

@@kevins971 You have to do recovery somehow, and a soft shackle with a kinetic recovery rope poses significantly less risk than a chain on a tow hitch.

[@bearswartz2907]

This is great info! One thing I would add, from my days of rescue training as a firefighter. ALWAYS put a jacket, blanket, or other soft, heavy fabric over the chain or strap. This should be placed a third of the distance behind the tow vehicle. If the strap or chain breaks, it will wrap around the jacket, which acts as a brake, quickly stopping it from sailing through the air. I've broken a few chains, and this works wonders to stop the chain. We used to use our bunker gear coats, but even a sleeping bag or big tarp folded up will work.

[@madmagyver9981]

Never use a chain.

[@grundyb]

Yes! I was a volunteer firefighter and all of the firefighters instructed us to hang our heavy jackets over the cable before putting tension on it. Also we were instructed to stay more than 20 feet away from the cable.

[@PeuSHINIGA]

Here we just use to open the hood to minimize the damage of a strap/cable rupture, a few accidents like this already happened here.

[@Dan-yk6sy]

@@madmagyver9981 For sure, unless you bought it yourself and know the rating, but even then I'd take straps over a chain any day. I guarantee 99.9% of people who have a chain in their truck or around the barn have no idea what its working load is.

[@madmagyver9981]

@@Dan-yk6sy that's why I specifically said a 6 inch dozer strap. It's strong enough for 2 80,000lb machines to tug on and not break it so light trucks (even 10,000 lb ones) can't come close to breaking the strap. It's like a piece of 6 inch diameter ship rope. Unbreakable by light trucks

[@r-dizzlefoshizzle7629]

My coworker was his sister, she came in when it happened because she didn’t know where to go. So sorry for her family, this was posted all over Facebook and our towns groups, and a lot of people were so horrible in the comments. I hope they heal well, and please be nice everyone, he can’t read your comments but his family still can

[@harrybarnes3539]

People generally are horrible until they are found in real life

[@TheLittlered1961]

People can be mean and stupid. I do not know why they would pick such an occasion to be this way. May karma catch up to them.

[@gorillaau]

​@@TheLittlered1961 The keyboard insulates them from physical retaliation. The trolls or unthinking armchair recovery experts will probably never see the person who they are attacking, or their family. This makes it easier to sling crap at the situation without them thinking it through, and still feel like they have made a difference. Condolences to the family of the departed, (I think it was Ryan) who passed away too young

[@kw2519]

I’m so sorry for her and what she had to experience. That must have been incredibly traumatic. I also feel horrible for the guy just trying to help….

[@Platinum1812]

Sadly incidents like this attract the trolls and narcissists and 12 year old bullies that are doing nothing good in their lives but know they should be. God be with the family.

[@chrisgeddes26]

I taught wheeled (and some track) recovery for the U.S. Army for 7 years. Thank you for putting this out. This info should prevent some serious injuries or worse. Thank you for the great info!

[@steve6548]

Hotel 8 guy here! Recovered many vehicles! No injuries to me or anyone else from hooking up and recovering vehicles. I had good training!

[@Shoorit]

I didn’t read the title properly and when you said “it was fatal” it caught me off guard. How incredibly sad, I bet the guy helping was devastated too even though he was trying to help.

[@ArmedAndIndigenous]

It's always some idiot that doesn't think first that gets others hurt

[@kingcosworth2643]

@@ArmedAndIndigenous The victim was there too mate, he could of halted the operation if he knew what he was looking at. The fact is it was two guys who didn't understand the risk and an awful accident..

[@ArmedAndIndigenous]

@@kingcosworth2643 both idiots for not knowing

[@kingcosworth2643]

@@ArmedAndIndigenous I'm sure there is stuff you don't know, what's the force type and amplitude difference between using a dropdown hitch or an axial hitch in this application?

[@1929modelagirl]

​@ArmedAndIndigenous I presume you knew? Impressive And your greater um, knowledge has given you the right to judge. Put your foil hat back on now

[@jadr5989]

This is a great video. Years ago I was almost killed in the same way. Wasn't into offroading, knew nothing about recovery. Someone stopped to pull us out (I was riding with friends), he seemed confident in what he was doing, so we let him proceed. I stood off to the side and away from the vehicles where I felt would be safe. He tied a 2'' strap with metal hook on the end, around his hitch somehow I think, not sure. He hammered on the gas, I heard a loud bang and for some reason I moved my head about 6" left as a reaction. The hook and rope shot straight at me, passed by right where my head was, continued another 10', came back, wrapped around my head and pulled tight across my eyes, faster than I could fall to the ground. Other than rope burns across my eyelids I ended up ok. But if the hook hit my head I would have been dead. This video should be part of standard driver's education to get a driver's license.

[@ultrazep]

glad you survived, that is very scary

[@ericmcdaniel4029]

Holy crap. That’s like final destination shit

[@b0wen11]

Can someone tell @Matt's Offroad Recovery this info, they keep using tow balls. just look at this vid kzbin.info/www/bejne/ronVlWd4qr-Ye7M

[@Cager-wv3uk]

Glad your alright wow

[@richardmccann4815]

You certainly came far closer than most could imagine. If there was ever a proof of divine intervention, your head movement was such.

[@markstephens5120]

I'm 61 and have been pulling stuck vehicles out this way all of my life, never again! My condolences to Ryan's family, may god be with you in your healing process and thank you for allowing this story to be told 🙏.

[@KNR90]

You can but with static recovery, not horizontal. You can also shackle and hook from a rear tow bar to your front tow hooks to pull backwards

[@juanshaftpatel7488]

wow you are a danger

[@johnhopkins4920]

God was on his front number plate (“god & guns”). Is this stupid accident proof there is no god? Or is there is - why did his god have him killed?

[@bs1820]

Which god ?

[@chadepperson5609]

Think almost every one of us that watched this video is guilty of pulling something out with a receiver hitch. This is a wake-up call for me on what I need to use next time. Thank you for putting out this content and thank you to the family for allowing you to tell this story. Sadly, this happened but I feel this information will save someone else.

[@larrybe2900]

Seldom anyone in their learning curve in life simply think safety and start out by raising the hood of the vehicle being pulled out. Hopefully this video and discussion impacts that learning curve earlier for those viewing. Each of us has done sketchy stuff in our time with little or no consequence. Stuff like this should be incorporated into a school setting along with the bloody accident movie often presented. Here speed nor drunk driving killed but simple ignorance to at least raise the hood.

[@KNR90]

You can, but don't do a kinetic recovery. Gently pull tight, then pull while they help. A kinetic recovery is never good in deep mud. But someone who just doesn't have traction, you can static pull them just fine. We do it all the time, but never do kinetic recoveries. That's asking for danger

[@pokerman9108]

nope my dad showed be the proper way to pull a vehicles out of the mud etc. rule number 1, never pull from the receiver or ball. This used to be common knowledge. even if it works, you could have a failure later on while pulling you camper or boat... stressing the receiver is not good.

[@sebastianwhalin743]

​@@KNR90Its not meant for that and if you do that even with a static recovery you are putting yourself and others at risk

[@KNR90]

@@sebastianwhalin743 no more than basically any other attachment point, and it's likely the safest choice of attachment, other than attaching a shackle through the tow receiver

[@SonOfNone]

I just bought my first truck, which is off-road ready. I would have never guessed recovering with a tow-ball was unsafe. Glad to have watched this. Deepest condolences to the family and friends.

[@dferris44]

As a retired wrecker driver who specialized in class 8 recoveries I think this is one of the best video's I seen on this subject. Only one thing I can think to add is the drop ball mount will increase torque load on the hitch (like a cheater bar on a ratchet) which is why they have gusset plates I have seen people twist and break a hitch just by slamming on the brakes with a drop mount and moderate load on trailer.

[@no-replies]

I've always hooked around the actual receiver, that any better?

[@dferris44]

@@no-replies The receiver is better than hooking on the bumper it's surprising how weak the factory bumper mounts can be. For hard pulls I prefer to go to a frame crossmember strongest place to hook on to.

[@bodesmcbodeson686]

Outstanding note.

[@TViper2369]

One thing that wasn't mentioned, and probably the most important in related to this, static straps and chains are not meant to be snatched on.

[@chuckfinley4757]

*videos, not video's.

[@danevannett3804]

Ryans father Chris is a friend of mine. Thank you for making this video, hopefully it can save lives in the future. R.I.P. Ryan and my sincere condolences to all in the Woods family.

[@mamacat63]

Please extend my deepest condolences to the Woods family. I always hate to hear about accidents like this 💔😪

[@danevannett3804]

@@mamacat63 I will, I'm sure it will mean a lot to them and thank you!

[@mamacat63]

@@danevannett3804 I neglected to extend my deepest condolences to you, too. Your friend died suddenly and I know you miss him 😔 💔

[@danevannett3804]

@@mamacat63 Thank you! but to be honest I never met Ryan. It's most definitely a tragic loss to his family and my thoughts and prayers are with and for them.

[@laurieclark2456]

I shared. My boys who tow allot. When friends in trouble and commercial. Good time to post as all those stuck boats in Fla. eeeeks. Trucks too. And car water log messes. Storm Ian.

[@1sicsrt]

As i am someone who regularly stops and helps stuck/stranded motorists, this is knowledge for me!! Tragic end by someone just stopping to help. I can't even imagine how both sides of this story are feeling.

[@oxyfee6486]

This happened to me in a Dodge Dart, my friend was towing me to a garage for it to be fixed, when he pulled into the garage parking lot he stretched the cable, my front tires were having trouble rolling over the curb. His hook let go and came flying through the windshield into the passenger seat, I was covered in glass, it was a lesson I will never forget. May his family find peace, and may he Rest In Peace.

[@pw5315]

How did he die if he was in the car that was pulling you?

[@troycurrie7784]

Nobody died. Oxyfee was being pulled and the hook flew into his passenger seat...Always read twice so as not to get confused.

[@pw5315]

@@troycurrie7784 He's telling a story about his friend and ends it with "may his family find peace, and may he rest in peace". I took that mean that his friend died. But now I see he's talking about the poor fella from the video.

[@troycurrie7784]

@@pw5315 The same adage goes for sending a phone text. Always read twice so as not to send out something confusing...or embarrassing ;-)

[@pw5315]

@@troycurrie7784 Lol, you're not wrong there, but I don't accept the blame for this one. That comment was written very poorly and it was easy to misunderstand.

[@KillerBlackbird]

After watching this I’m definitely going to upgrade my shackles and receiver mount. The gentleman that unfortunately passed as a result of this is probably saving more lives than he would’ve ever imagined by using this as an educational example.

[@adventureguy4119]

@Tommy Ealey he’s now another ghost being confused for big foot. No hope his soul is in Heaven

[@grendeldog01ify]

I’m most definitely switching from chains to soft straps, and I’m gonna take a damn hard look at all my attachment points. That’s scary shit.

[@NikkiTheOtter]

I dont use my hitch for recovery at all. I have both a front and rear class 4 reciever, and I'll shove the strap in the reciever and pin it with the 5/8 pin. I will never use a hitch to pull anything except a trailer.

[@gearhead9115]

@Tommy Ealey Well if the hitch pin fails all you have coming At you is The strap So I would be with the other guy that you are questioning about the 5/8 pin the 5/8 pin I would much rather trust that over the 2" ball pulling on a receiver ball is stupid unless it's just a simple Little tug like out of sand or something not badly stuck in mud like this guy in the video appeared to be.

[@NikkiTheOtter]

@Tommy Ealey I trust the bare minimum number of failure points with the bare minimum amount of metal that will be flying if something breaks.

[@530eman]

Thank you for taking the time to share this information and for being respectful to this gentleman and his family ❤️💔❤️

[@nirvfan81]

Wow. I’m not a truck person but still. I’ve seen people pull on those ball hitches like that without giving it a second thought. I’m definitely more aware now regarding things like this, so thank you for this valuable information!

[@tlgomaha]

This is the content KZbin needs! No music, not overly dramatized, just straight to the point with the facts to back it up. Thank you for the informative video, I’ll be forwarding this to my friends and encouraging them to upgrade their recovery gear. RIP Ryan, if there is a way we can help the family by either donation to them or a charity in Ryan’s name please let us know.

[@Michael-lx7px]

No adds as well!

[@raypelletier9580]

I have used my trailer ball many times to pull stuck vehicles. I honestly believed it was stronger than any straps i use. After watching this video i will neverr do this again. Thanks for this very informative and potentiality life saving video.

[@iffykidmn8170]

@@Michael-lx7px No adds because he never mentioned specific brand names.😉🤣

[@seanworkman431]

@@iffykidmn8170 yes he did, it wasn't a sponsored video

[@iffykidmn8170]

@@seanworkman431 thats my point, the video itself was not sponsored but how much was paid for mentioning specific brands?

[@proffitt72]

I really needed to see this video. I have been recovering stuck vehicles in an unsafe manner for probably 34 years. I have seen chains, tow ropes, and bumpers fail. Still, I wouldn't have thought about the receiver failure. Sobering video, to say the least. Thank you for the video. Prayers to the family and friends.

[@DuelistMandroid]

Sitting here reflecting on the danger I've placed myself in over the years also!!

[@timesthree5757]

Are you dead yet. No, ok. Hillbillies have been pulling stuff out for decades.

[@jinglemyberries866]

@@DuelistMandroid Just thinking about it sends shivers down my spine.

[@freerangecitizen]

For sure, I’m feeling like a dumbass. In the moment when your trying to be helpful, and you have chains, and straps, and a capable rig… it’s natural to chip in and help. I haven’t put much thought in to the load bearing capabilities of a hitch when pulling someone out. I might have the hitch of the 550 in the Tacoma or vice versa. Will pay attention from here out.

[@timesthree5757]

@@jinglemyberries866 are we gonna be weak? Our ancestors did way more dangerous stuff and built a powerful country. No risk taking anymore I guess. My grandfather fought in WW2. He took potshots at a Japanese Arty positions to get them to fire their cannons so that the US Navy can blow it up. My great uncle was a nuclear disposal specialist with no formal training. People back then didn't worry about dying cause they knew they would kickoff someday. I risk my life hauling 18 tons in and 89 f250 cause the rancher needed hey for the winter or their cows would die. Our civilization is doomed if we don't start taking chances again.

[@danoesq2]

Sad story and good education. I haven't had to do recovery, but have studied the hell out of it to avoid something like this including proper recovery points and soft shackles. One of the first things I learned - Never use a tow hitch ball.

[@ChattNCC]

This has been incredibly educational. Thank you for sharing and condolences to the family of the gentleman that was killed.

[@billdevaul3038]

I’ve been in the automotive towing and recovery business for 30 years, I’m saving this video for all my guys to watch, especially my greenhorns!! Thank you for making this you undoubtedly are saving lives!

[@will.green.]

greenhorns are a liability. get your guys hard

[@berney55]

I work on a farm and have to pull equipment out all the time. I admittedly had no idea i was putting myself in so much danger. Definitley changing my pulling gear. Thank you!!

[@IdahoRanchGirl]

And I'm on a ranch. Didn't know this. We usually use the winches on the trucks. But have done this too.

[@muttwinstead6422]

Thank you for taking the time to share this information. Very helpful. Going to order some of your recommended recovery equipment. Thanks again.

[@PNWJEEPER01]

Yours was the first off road channel I ever watched, way back when you were wheeling the jku. I've gained so much valuable information and probably avoided all kinds of dangerous mistakes/accidents because of what I've learned from your videos. Thanks, Justin; you're an invaluable resource- especially if I ever get stuck in Colorado ; )

[@rediron44]

Good info. As a Union Ironworkers of over 30 years and a Certified Rigger, I was happy to see you point out the 5-1 safety rating on the shackle. I don't know how many times I've seen guys claim the soft shackles are "stronger" because they don't understand steel shackles are rated that way. Well educated video

[@sucha603boy]

When I was in the navy I saw a shipyard crane with a load that was rigged wrong and it snapped and crashed down to the dry dock, luckily nobody was hurt but rigging properly is no joke.

[@mrmotofy]

The problem isn't necessarily with the equipment it tends to be the way products are labeled. Some are break, some are just a weight rating. So people frequently don't know/understand which is what

[@sucha603boy]

@@mrmotofy I have also seen loading straps snap because someone didn’t use a spreader bar

[@javaman2883]

@@mrmotofy The towing gear that people pick up at Walmart, Home Depot, UHaul, RV center for the most part will not be designed with a great deal of safety factor. Those general retailers want cheap items to sell to public at low prices. The uninformed customer will very often choose the $12 "get-er-done" item over it's $30 better designed more purpose fitting alternative.

[@dammityoutube]

In most cases I will agree with you. The things that I am annoyed he didn't go over are shock load, and the difference between dead pulling and kinetic pulling. Shock load's where the soft shackles and kinetic ropes excel at and what they are made for, and the only place that they are more than likely stronger than a steel shackle. Chain's and shackle's are very strong under tension, however they cannot take shock load's very well. You may get a few snaps out of them before they break, and when they do break, it is catastrophic.

[@frankhage1734]

I just want you to know these kind of videos actually make a difference. My recovery methods have evolved from using chains and tow straps on the cheap tow ball to having the right equipment for the job. I'm in Colorado and usually have to "self rescue" in deep snow. I now have a winch, snatch block and tree savers along with chains for all 4 wheels. In town, It's easy to pull out other vehicles stuck in the snow using simple traction forces. I've mainly learned that yanking on a tow strap is reckless.

[@chickensfloat7427]

Wreckfull

[@phoenixarizona8441]

We don't use chains much either unless it's just towing one of the quads our buggies back home off our personal trails but not in situations like this

[@dangeary2134]

About the only time one can reliably use a tow strap that is meant to be yanked on like that is when you are in 6x concrete mixer pulling another 6x concrete mixer out. Those particular straps are designed to stretch by the pulling vehicle. At the maximum stretch the puller can go, the brakes are set, and the mired vehicle is eased out as far as the tensioned strap can pull it. It’s best to stay a long way away from this kind of operation. Any concrete worker or mixer driver knows this, and they will chase off everyone before it starts, at least two times the length of the strap.

[@DeathAngelHRA]

@@phoenixarizona8441 Chains are generally safer than wire rope and straps, as chains don't exert kinetic energy when they fail or come undone.

[@jed-henrywitkowski6470]

@@dangeary2134 When I was a kid, my dad parked his tractor-trailer on an old cement foundation, as it was monsoon season. Well, that thing broke through the foundation and got stuck! A wrecker was called, and as things were being set up, an adult told us, kids, to stay back as if the cables snap we could get decapitated.

[@sh-df1bb]

I'm almost at a loss for words...God bless Jenifer and loved ones and THANK YOU for creating and sharing this video I'm sure this video will save a few lives and injuries

[@mermaidmama7880]

Thank you Woods family. Your generosity during a this time will save others a similar fate. Wyoming girl here. I've been stuck more times than I can possibly recall. I've sent this to all family members. We are grateful and send healing light . Ryan will be remembered 🌈

[@doreestone4487]

I knew Ryan and his wife. I lived in Kingman and the Woods family was in my church. Ryan worked on my Jeep for me. I moved to Tennessee shortly before Ryan’s accident. It was tragic. Thank you for giving people this important life-saving information.

[@ordinarypete]

Kingman unite!

[@johnhopkins4920]

So he must have believed in some god / guy in the sky (why else would one go to church). Isn’t this awful death proof there is no god? Or did he perhaps do something to p1ss of his god? Please share any info you have. Thank you.

[@recycledfelines]

​@@johnhopkins4920 I'm a witch, ex Christian and usually Christians believe that it's in God's plan

[@AfkBxndit]

@@johnhopkins4920stop being disrespectful

[@25439]

@@johnhopkins4920why wud u care, nothing u say will change anything for them ul just sound like an annoying bitch

[@greghollis3607]

I am one of those people who didn't not realize how dangerous this could have been over the years, Thank you Sooooo much for taking the time to educate those of us who didn't know.. God bless you 🙏

[@aubreygrove2455]

Thank for posting, I've passed this on to my children . Prayers for young man and his family. Thank you for teaching us

[@dougwrede9951]

This is awesome that you took the time to educate us. We greatly appreciate it. Thanks

[@JaysonFlint]

I don’t do recovery, but at least now I know what not to do, it was worth my 19 minutes. Thanks to you and the woman who requested you share this.

[@roro5150]

Sir, your PSA is a must-watch for anyone venturing offroad or having the awareness to prevent an accident. You are savings lives.

[@Northtide]

For the past few years I have been watching several recovery videos on You Tube and learned NOT to do this type of towing. Great video. If it saves one life it is well worth the time and effort. Thank you.

[@jose3541]

Thank you for sharing this story. I learned something valuable today and my condolences to the family

[@anthonyhumbert8787]

Back in 2001 I was using a skid loader and 1/2" logging chain to pull an old residential TV antenna tower out of the ground. Well the chain snapped and came flying back and hit me in the left upper chest. It somehow knocked me out with me still pulling back on the drive sticks. My helper had to run and jump into the machine and kill the ignition. I came to a few seconds later. It didn't break the skin and hit right below the collar bone so no broken bones or internal injuries. I had a guardian angel with me that day.

[@motobox1232]

Damn sure wasn't 1/2 inch logging chain broken by a skid steer lol

[@anthonyhumbert8787]

@@motobox1232 yes it was 1/2". JD 280 skid loader taking running starts on 20' of slack. That's about 9k lbs of shock load over and over on an older chain.

[@NS-hs6lt]

Your heart may have stopped for a time then reset itself.

[@drgunsmith4099]

From the UK I have used this method pulling people out and being pulled out, at the time and when your in a rush or having fun things like this literally don’t cross your mind, this man’s death won’t be in vain as him and your video will probably save lives. My condolences to his family. 🙏

[@ToyotaNutjob]

U have 0 common sense then. All of u airheads in the comments

[@Freddy_Confetti]

It wouldn’t have happened if it wasn’t a drop hitch

[@Praise___YaH]

Guys, Here is The True Savior YaH The Heavenly FATHER HIMSELF was Who they Crucified/Pierced for our sins and “HERE IS THE PROOF” From the Ancient Egyptian Semitic: "Yad He Vav He" is what Moshe (Moses) wrote, when Moses asked YaH His Name (Exodus 3) Ancient Egyptian Semitic Direct Translation Yad - "Behold The Hand" He - "Behold the Breath" Vav - "Behold The NAIL"

[@chrismueller1734]

Yes I get a street ball or a straight hitch with a ball on it and I have pulled many many people out with it and I have never ever seen that happen that's that's just a once in a lifetime thing you probably never see it again in your life and it's a Once in a Lifetime thing no bad things towards the guy that was killed I mean that's that's life you know it's going to happen and his family has to deal with it and everybody else does but I don't think anybody should come over KZbin and spread all of this over KZbin for one guys bad time I think it should keep to the family I don't think there should be anybody else telling about their incident I think the family should do that not one guy and then spreading it all over the world to KZbin Just because he thinks he can train somebody no there's a lot of people out there to do it and there's a lot of people that are guilty of doing it I just said I was guilty of doing it but I have never seen that happen there must have been a flaw in that hitch

[@fdyhdfhy]

Thank you for sharing this video with the world. For sure saved my life.

[@mikehannahs]

I’m going to play this video at work for a safety meeting, I work for the county road department here in southeast Utah, we are always pulling something out of washes and mud when it rains here, thank you for making this video to inform folks of the danger involved in pulling things out of these situations, RIP to the gentleman who was involved in this and I hope the family is ok 😢

[@HHGHEADSHOT]

If you are in Utah Id suggest Matts's off-road recovery, Has way more experience than this guy quoting paperwork and tensile strength. Just my personal experiences being a Moab junky.

[@mikehannahs]

Matt is definitely damn good, I understand this video to explaining the tensile strength and breaking points, it makes a lot of sense to me and definitely showed me just how bad this could go, he did a great job explaining this, I did play this video at work and the other 3 mechanics in our shop were mind blown just like I was and agreed doing it using the ball hitch is not good

[@mikegillen6009]

@@HHGHEADSHOT oh yeah, the insurance fraud guy......

[@michaelsantosuosso7284]

@@mikegillen6009 please do tell..never heard this one

[@williamburnett5337]

@@HHGHEADSHOT you are literally talking shit on a video meant to help people understand the dynamics and engineering involved in the recovery process 🙄 a man lost his life and what are you doing???

[@Yoda19611]

Great video and I would like to thank Mrs. Woods for allowing the story to be told so others can learn from this tragedy. My goes out the the family.

[@lifeafterourloss]

This has definitely made me reconsider many of the practices I use. Thanks for the video. Glad this popped up into my feed over a year later.

[@naquinja]

Very useful information to keep in mind. I thank you for spreading the word.

[@QbutNotTheQ]

As an ER nurse I have seen this exact tragedy several times. Beware of the giant forces hidden in a stretched rope or chain! Expect that it can snap and kill you and never get yourself in the danger zone on either side. 😢

[@jeffa847]

Wow - I didn't know it was that common

[@OnTheDLum]

ropes tear chains stretch always use a rope if you're towing heavy vehicles chains are all right but they are an extreme hazard

[@liamgross7217]

@@OnTheDLum that makes sense. I’ve always just used my tow ball and a snatchem strap. Glad this video found me before I kill someone.

[@smokingnothinbutgood7921]

I use cranes everyday at work. I always check the straps, chains etc.... I saw plates of steel that were 10" thick 144 feet long by 72 tall come off on guys that shook the whole shop.

[@drewbienewbie03xx81]

@@jeffa847 it's not, wife's a nurse at the ER in Uwharrie, massive nationwide known off-roading trail and mudding park. Asked her and after 16 years on the job she has seen this all of 0 times. Q is someone that enjoys seeing likes.

[@bbrcummins1984]

I had this happen to a friend in Florida about 40 years ago, he survived but was never the same, prayers for the man's family and friends 🙏

[@KazingaD]

i will forever keep this in mind for any recovery. thanks for the info

[@anthony560]

Thank you for posting this, just got into off roading and this is fantastic information to have.

[@GeorgeToft]

You're the first person I've met in 25 years that used the term "design margin" and knew what it meant. Thanks for the video, this was great.

[@Topper-gf8xl]

Thanks, you've probably saved someone's life. I've been watching one of the more popular KZbin recovery companies for a few years, but this is the first time I've seen someone address this subject. Much appreciated.

[@crashbandit7270]

Matt uses recovery ropes instead of a static ropes. If your talking about Matt's off road recovery.

[@larrybe2900]

Static lines have their place but not dealing with stuck vehicles. Apart from failure a static line can cause damage to either vehicle. Something one seldom might consider is the invisible suction apart from the conscious weight of the vehicle. Just thinking what it takes to pull a foot out of mud can only translate into a huge restrictive force dealing with a vehicle. Admittedly, aspects of this have come to light for me since watching various recovery videos here on YT. Yet this demonstration shed more light on the basics in a real time environment for me.

[@TheDude1776]

Great information. Thanks for doing this. Its very easy for someone that is stuck out in the middle of nowhere to take what they can get as far as help getting out.

[@HockeyDad6631]

Thank you for this video. Ive made this mistake a few times over the years not knowing the dangers. Never again. Now i know better. THANK YOU and condolences to the family.

[@danmaantaya1749]

I had zero recovery equipment knowledge. Now I know a bit more. Thanks for the video and my condolences to the Woods family.

[@XemawthEvo2]

As viewer number 526,033 I can honestly say I learned something extremely important today. I would have never questioned the improper method. Your demonstration and explanation were outstanding, and a major wake up. Condolences to the family, and especially to Ryan. Ryan could have been any one of us. The kindness of the Woods family, and the effort by Colorado 4x4 Rescue and Recovery in this video will undoubtedly save lives by shining a light on an incredibly common and dangerous practice.

[@treau3131]

Thanks for sharing. I had no idea about most of this. Just bought my first Jeep and will be getting the proper gear. Thanks again.

[@DomingoRodriguez7192]

Thank you for this video. I don't even own a truck but I've been thinking about getting one recently and I had no idea how dangerous this was. Your video has done its job.

[@dusty7264]

Growing up on a a ranch in Arizona we always hooked two straps to the frame. We use bolt type shackles. This is a sad story. Thank you for the information

[@PavementOptional]

Great video but nobody has talked about what the actual load ratings for the receiver hitch (vehicle side) are. You could have the best recovery gear available and not have anything strong enough to mount it to.

[@leewelbanks6366]

Yeah, nobody is talking about the rating of the reciever hitch on the vehicle, I have actually seen a a$$hat ripe his complete hitch out from under his pretty 4x4 truck loaded with sand trying to remove a tree stump, was actually pretty funny, as he was one of those know it all's.

[@Joe_Brown99]

That’s because you don’t use the stinger/ball

[@PavementOptional]

@@Joe_Brown99 I'm talking vehicle side, you get a 20k rope and a 20k recovery hitch that doesn't make your 6k vehicle side reciever hitch 20k rated. D ring mounts on most bumpers are only welded to plate steel with no real reinforced behind them and are not really rated for pulling on. All the talk about proper recovery equipment is great information but what its attached to on the vehicle needs to be addressed too.

[@michaeldigiulio5602]

@@PavementOptional would that be frame to connect directly to, on both vehicles??

[@TheDigitalDay]

I’m glad to finally find a video like this that clearly and concisely explains what you need, and why, as well as recommendations for good choices all in one

[@blly8325]

Thanks man, I will not use a trailer ball again to recover or to pull objects ! Appreciate this info 👊👍!! Our Deepest Condolences to all that were impacted by this tragedy. 🙏🙏

[@Elkhunter2020]

Definitely something I've never thought of much. So Sorry for the family loss. I'll be sharing this video with everyone I know. Thank you! Best wishes to the family involved!

[@kbcr500]

I, really, just want to say thanks for the insight and for taking the time to do the research. It's a tragic loss, there are no words, condolences to the family.

[@bradstanke442]

This was awesome, thank you for the education and bless Ryan's family. ❤

[@venomousrc1772]

Thank you for sharing this...I've honestly never heard of this happening but I feel safer knowing I can prevent it. I really appreciate this knowledge. And my thoughts and prayers go out to the family. Im sorry for your lose..no one deserves to go out like that.

[@MrDhandley]

This particularly horrific accident has gone around the world. Many many KZbinrs have discussed it and what went wrong. Unfortunately there are still people out there that just won’t listen good advice such as yours. Nevertheless you may have saved a life. Australia.

[@anthonyl950]

Condolences to his family and thank you for posting. I can't even begin to count the number of times I've just dropped the loop of the strap over a 2-5/16 ball to pull

[@TriGogglin]

Thank you for this, I have recovered many vehicles with my truck from the tow ball, condolences to the woods family, and this definitely opened my eyes.

[@caveman49428]

Thank you for caring so much to make this video, and to the family thank you with deepest sympathy. Sorry for such a tragic accident. I'm now shocked I was so complacent. Thinking about the chain/rope/strap/cable and assuming what its attached to is good.

[@johnsouto7879]

Thank you for posting this...... this has definately changed my thinking, and thank you to Jen Woods for being willing to have her personal story shared, I hope it brings some comfort to her knowing that a lot of people are being safer than they would have been without this knowledge.

[@rockweeks5697]

Excellent video and your presentation was very down to earth and easy to understand for the average offloaded. When I was in a Search and Rescue group in Southern Arizona back in the late seventies and early eighties we regularly trained utilizing all of the info in this video. I commend you for putting this video out but I'm sorry that someone had to lose their life for this info to come to light.

[@rosiesails3947]

Thank you for the video and your time!

[@TheFatesLieutenant]

Thank you (and the Woods family) for providing this information.

[@greganderson2911]

This has been on my mind since it happened. Thank you for making this video. My heart goes out to his family.

[@theveefit]

Wow, I had NO idea but glad you made this video to share and keep us safe . My condolences to the mama wife and family ❤️

[@dougcherneski5638]

What a great video. Good for you for shadowing this information. I learned something

[@kiethj7]

I was riding my bike the other day. It was blissful and peaceful on a trail in the middle of the woods. Suddenly I slip off the side of trail and slam on concrete. It happened so fast. I ended up breaking my elbow. I drove ten miles back with one arm.. The whole ride back made me contemplate how fast things can go wrong. I'm still in shock about it. This story is so sad and a grave reminder how fast things can change. I like to drive unpaved mountain roads in my Xterra so I'm glad I came across this. Deepest condolences to this family. This is so heartbreaking

[@xephael3485]

My deepest condolences to your bike... Didn't deserve to be slammed on the concrete.

[@kiethj7]

@@xephael3485 I agree. It's a great bike 😂

[@Praise___YaH]

Guys, Here is The True Savior YaH The Heavenly FATHER HIMSELF was Who they Crucified/Pierced for our sins and “HERE IS THE PROOF” From the Ancient Egyptian Semitic: "Yad He Vav He" is what Moshe (Moses) wrote, when Moses asked YaH His Name (Exodus 3) Ancient Egyptian Semitic Direct Translation Yad - "Behold The Hand" He - "Behold the Breath" Vav - "Behold The NAIL"

[@TwoGunToast]

A concrete trail through the middle of the woods? Uhhh aren't those trails usually kept as dirt so not to unnecessarily damage wildlife?

[@15subarusti59]

I'm guessing you broke your left elbow? Hope you healed up ok

[@TobyCostaRica]

I watch a lot of Matt’s off road recovery, way back since he had 15k subscribers, wish he didn’t wing it with his setups, I remember a tri-ball hitch, then a pintle hitch. Not sure if he still uses the tri ball. He’s skilled for sure but the amount of views he gets I wish he would take the time to show people the safest way.

[@thisisfun887]

He switched to the hitch link.

[@bigdogpray]

Thank you so much! I really appreciate your time and education.

[@jeffs1884]

Such a tragedy. My sincere condolences to Ryan’s family and friends. Thank you for this important information. Many would be oblivious to this if not for your awareness efforts.

[@jaylsin4973]

Thank you , I'm sixty years old and have always been helpful pulling friend and strangers out of ditches which happens alot in Minnesota winters with icy roads. I have heard of ropes and chains snapping but never experienced a failure myself. From now on I'm am going to recover with proper equipment even tho it will cost me extra just for that occasional pull but will be worth every penny to have the piece of mind that I will be doing more good then harm. Your never to old to learn and I appreciate the education your video has provided me. To the woods family my condolences but find comfort in knowing their husband son father or whatever Ryan was to them should find comfort knowing Ryan's tragic accident will save life's thanks to you allowing his story to be shared and for the right young gentleman making the video to tell it. Lots of people die everyday but not all leave a positive ripple in the fabric of time but your loved one has. God bless you and ease your pain.

[@noseeum6385]

One of the the most educational videos on this topic I have viewed. Thank you for spreading the word and making this safer for everyone.

[@Tonka81061]

I did NOT know how low the limits were on the 2" hollow receivers, absolutely amazing information, thank you so much!

[@aleksfoxtrot8044]

Thanks for your respect to the family and sharing this knowledge. I hope the tragedy of Ryan’s loss will end in saving lives in the future. RIP brother.

[@crawlfish8134]

you definitely taught me something, thank you for making this video. My condolences to the Woods family.

[@importmike]

Thank you for posting this. Condolences to the Woods family. Rest In Peace Ryan from a fellow off-roader.

[@josh-hh3bt]

Thanks to the Wood family who allowed you to use their tragic story to educate a lot of us who might have not know this. Thanks for the video again. RIP Mr. Wood from Texas.

[@CountryAndClassics]

This was a very good educational Video!! Thank You for posting as ,any people do not realize the dangers of pulling stuck vehicles & what happens if a cable lets go, known as the "Danger Zone".

[@comegetsum187]

Your awesome brother. Love the education. As a crane operator and ground guy this stuff was ingrained in our heads during safety meetings. Rip to this guy who passed away...

[@fz1bureau]

Such an eye opener. I am grateful for this video. Thank you to each and every one of you who allowed it to be made and shared. My recovery gear will be upgraded and methods adjusted accordingly. Huge condolences to the Woods family.

[@chrisburenheide6600]

I have used my hitch hundreds of times and somehow never thought about about this but I will definitely be upgrading my gear - Thank You

[@devisissy1]

I'm getting into trails and I found this really informative. Thank you!

[@H3minusH2]

Been off-roading for a long time, seen it done right and wrong. This video is fantastic…thank you

[@swcheshier61]

Thank you very much for the info. So sorry for this families loss. I am a rope rescue tech among other things. Have been a trail guide for an off road park for several years. I was getting ready to mention the receiver pin but you covered it too. 👍🏼 Thank you for your service.

[@futurebubble6572]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video. So much great information!

[@cindycreateforlife]

Bless you for making this video, it may indeed prevent another tragic death or serious injury! Too many people think that they can’t afford a tow truck or don’t want to call a tow truck so they call a buddy, they think it’s a matter of horse power! They couldn’t be more wrong and your video is very clear and concise about the dangers! Listen up all you weekend warriors!

[@fritzkin8733]

Great message!! Thank you for sharing. Tragic and avoidable incident!

[@davidshettlesworth1442]

Thank you for this excellent "failure analysis" of a tragic event! I did learn some new stuff. Carry On Sir!

[@oneslosnake2081]

Thank you for the important life-saving information!! This is something that is often overlooked when we are out just having fun in the mud. Prayers and condolences to the family!!