Jayne Mansfield was a big name in Hollywood during the 1950s and 60s. Known for her beauty, talent, and charm, she quickly became a favorite among fans. But sadly, her life was cut short in a car accident that shocked the world. In this article, I’ll take you through what happened that tragic night, clear up some common myths, and share the lasting impact of her accident on road safety.
What Happened in Jayne Mansfield’s Car Accident?
On June 29, 1967, Jayne Mansfield was traveling late at night with her lawyer Sam Brody and her driver Ronald B. Harrison. They were driving in a 1966 Buick Electra from Biloxi, Mississippi, to New Orleans, Louisiana. Jayne had just finished performing at a nightclub and was headed to her next gig.
Also in the car were Jayne’s three children, including her young daughter, Mariska Hargitay, who would later become famous for her role in Law & Order: SVU. The children were in the back seat, fast asleep.
At around 2:30 a.m., their car slammed into the back of a slow-moving tractor-trailer on U.S. Route 90. A truck spraying mosquito fog had caused low visibility on the road, and the driver of the Buick didn’t see the trailer in time. The impact was so severe that the top of the car was torn off, killing Jayne, her lawyer, and the driver instantly.
Were the Children Hurt?
Incredibly, Jayne Mansfield’s three children survived the accident. Although the crash was fatal for the adults in the front seat, the children in the back seat only suffered minor injuries. This is a small miracle considering the severity of the crash.
Was Jayne Mansfield Decapitated?
A common rumor after the accident was that Jayne Mansfield had been decapitated. This myth spread quickly, but it’s not true. Jayne suffered severe head injuries, but she was not decapitated. The confusion likely came from how badly the car was damaged during the crash.
The “Mansfield Bar” and Its Impact on Road Safety
Jayne Mansfield’s tragic accident led to an important change in road safety. After the crash, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) introduced new rules to prevent similar accidents. Large trucks and trailers were required to install underride guards—steel bars designed to stop cars from sliding underneath trucks during a collision. These guards are often called “Mansfield Bars” in memory of Jayne Mansfield.
The Impact on Her Family
Jayne left behind five children, including Mariska Hargitay, who was only three years old at the time. Mariska went on to become a successful actress, but she has spoken about how her mother’s death deeply affected her. Even though Mariska doesn’t remember the accident, she has said it shaped who she is today.
Jayne Mansfield’s Legacy
Jayne Mansfield’s life was full of talent, beauty, and charisma, and her sudden death left a lasting mark on Hollywood and her fans. Her tragic car accident not only impacted her family but also brought about changes that continue to save lives on the road today. Her legacy continues through her children and the lasting impact she had on pop culture and road safety.
Conclusion
Jayne Mansfield’s car accident was a heartbreaking event that changed Hollywood forever. While rumors about her death still circulate, the truth is that her accident was a tragic reminder of how dangerous the roads can be. The introduction of underride guards, or “Mansfield Bars,” following her death, has helped prevent similar accidents, making her legacy one that saves lives. Though she left this world too soon, Jayne Mansfield’s memory lives on in her family and the improvements she inspired in road safety.
