A loose tie-down strap on a semi-trailer caused $2,500 damage to a passing car Thursday evening, about one-half mile west of Red Oak, in Montgomery County. Authorities say a 2006 International semi driven by 56-year old Larry Hughes, of Homerville, GA, was traveling east on Highway 34, when a cargo strap holding down a flatbed trailer load of steel pipes came loose.

The strap swung out and hit a 2006 Dodge van driven by 43-year old Julie Misner, of South Elgin, IL, as Misner was traveling west on Highway 34. The strap hit the van’s side-view mirror, causing it to break off. It also created a large gouge in the driver’s side door and side sliding door.

Hughes was unaware of the accident until a sheriff’s deputy observed the tie-down strap dragging on the highway, and pulled the semi over. Moments later, Misner pulled up and showed the deputy the damage caused to her van by the passing semi.

No citations were issued.