Distracted Drivers Increasingly A Danger For Emergency Crews
BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- When a crash happens, emergency responders risk their lives to save others. That's why six years ago, Maryland adopted the move over law. But there are still many hazards on the road--including drivers.
Emergency crews are often the first to arrive after a crash, but distracted drivers are increasingly becoming a danger for those there to help.
"In this past year, across the state, there's been 35 troopers struck by drivers failing to move over," said Captain Daniel Pickett, Maryland State Police.
An overturned tractor trailer was part of a mock vehicle crash to show how first responders and two trucks respond to a scene and what drivers can do to help keep them safe.
"Pay extra attention as you encounter emergency vehicles, tow trucks and maintenance vehicles on the side of the roadway," said Joseph Sagal, Maryland Department of Transportation.
Maryland's move over law requires drivers to move into an open lane, away from emergency and road crews attending to roadside emergencies.
The law helps keep a safe space for authorities while they're working, avoiding tragedies like the death of Montgomery County officer Noah Leotta. Last December, he was struck and killed by a drunk driver during a traffic stop.
"When one of our own gets hit and killed trying to protect the citizens, it really does hit us close," said Captain Thomas Didone, Montgomery County Police Department.
Leotta reported to Captain Didone as part of the holiday task force that targets drunk drivers--a big problem this time of year.
"The holiday season, everybody wants to get home to their loved ones--especially us police officers," said Didone.
If an open lane isn't available, the move over law calls for drivers to at least reduce speed.
