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Changes in the rules about how we approach and drive by traffic incidents have met some success in reducing the number of injuries and fatalities associated with roadway incident crashes. But there is still a danger to those who trying to help at such scenes.
During this Crash Responder Safety Week, Buckeye State residents are reminded to move over, slow down, avoid distraction and expect the unexpected. For fire and rescue, emergency medical services, highway maintenance, towing and recovery and public works employees, sticking to those rules could be a life-saver.
"Anytime you see a roadside worker with flashing lights of any color -- #MoveOver or Slow Down! It's the law," the Ohio Department of Public Safety said on X Monday.
In one way or another, the people risking their lives on our roadways are doing so because they are serving the rest of us. Whether it be road construction crews dealing with distracted, frustrated or just plain lead-footed drivers; or firefighters and police officers trying to attend victims at a crash scene while drivers ignore the rules about changing lanes and slowing down, these folks have to rely on us.
"The firefighters, police officers, paramedics, and tow operators working to clear accidents put their lives on the line just inches away from fast-moving traffic," the Wadsworth Fire and EMS department posted on Facebook. "They have families waiting for them at home, and your caution ensures they get back safely."
Though this week gives us a chance to issue an extra reminder, that should be common sense all year round. Pay attention, follow the rules, give them a chance to do their jobs safely.