A BMW X1 driver in Slovakia has been lucky to survive a high-speed crash that saw them fly into the roof of a tunnel.

The frightening incident happened early in the morning on December 20 at the Bôrik Tunnel near Poprad. CCTV footage from outside the tunnel shows the BMW drift out of its lane and into a raised piece of concrete that acts as a ramp, sending the SUV into the air before it smashes into the top of the tunnel entrance, rolls in mid-air and comes to rest on the road.

Preliminary police investigations into the crash suggest that the driver had probably fallen asleep just prior to the crash.

Incredibly, the driver escaped without serious injuries and is expected to make a full recovery.

Images taken after the scary crash reveal the full extent of the damage suffered to the X1. Unsurprisingly, most of the front end has been absolutely destroyed. It is a similar story along the SUV’s passenger side and its rear. Clearly, the BMW is a total loss and will have to be replaced.

This incident serves as a timely reminder of just how dangerous it can be to drive a vehicle while tired, particularly during the holiday period. If you ever feel drowsy while behind the wheel, it’s far better to pull over and take a quick nap than it is to keep driving while putting your health, and the health of other motorists, at risk.