National Traffic Incident Response Week is underway, and it goes through Saturday. The Missouri Department of Transportation is partnering with other emergency response agencies to create awareness of the safety of responders working on the state’s roadways
Three MoDOT responders have been killed in the last ten years while responding to accidents, according to the organization. Other agencies, such as the Missouri Highway Patrol, have lost personnel for the same reason.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, traffic incidents are the number one cause of death for police officers and EMS responders nationwide.
MoDOT Traffic Incident Management Coordinator Bruce Pettus has this message for drivers.
“You need to remember this- responders are out there to do their jobs and to clear the roadway for the motorist. And not just MoDOT, but all response agencies have a focus on minimizing our time out on the roadways so that we all go home safe.”
Not moving over or slowing down for a responder on the highway is against the law, and can result in a ticket and fine.
MoDOT tells drivers: When you see an emergency response vehicle on the side of the road, slow down, put your phone down, pay attention, and move if you can.