‘Three seconds can change your life’: Powhatan deputy recounts 17-car pileup to raise awareness of distracted driving

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) -- Eleven years after a devastating crash changed his life forever, Powhatan County sheriff's deputy Brad Hughes is using his story to raise awareness about the dangers of distracted driving.

As Distracted Driving Awareness Month comes to a close, on April 28, Hughes told 8News the story of how distracted driving caused him to lose both of his legs.

“In just three seconds, my life changed,” Hughes recalled. “Three seconds can change your life —or take someone else’s.”

On March 17, 2014, Hughes -- a former security officer in Chesterfield County -- was assisting the Chesterfield Police Department on Midlothian Turnpike amid a massive 17-car pileup.

While trying to help at the chaotic scene, Hughes was struck by a pickup truck.

The 2014 17-car pileup that took Brad Hughes' legs. (Photo: 8News)

"I was hooked to the front of his truck, and then we crashed into another vehicle," Hughes said. "At that point in time, I rest[ed] my face on the asphalt."

Hughes said his heart stopped three times. He survived, but both of his legs had to be amputated.

"When I came to, my daughter walked in, looked at me, and said, ‘That’s not my father,’” Hughes said. “She was used to a six-foot-four giant. Now, I’m the one looking up to her.”

Hughes said the physical and emotional recovery was long, but he has since turned pain into purpose.

"Teaming up with Drive Smart Virginia, teaming up with VCU Project Impact, has really opened my eyes," he said.