Awareness, slowing down and merging when necessary can help keep first responders safe

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, motor vehicle-related incidents are a leading cause of line-of-duty deaths for law enforcement officers in the United States and a large majority are found to be preventable.

During an appearance on Sheridan Media’s Public Pulse, Wyoming Highway Patrol Lieutenant Erik Jorgensen spoke on two separate occasions in which his patrol car was struck by a passing motorist as he was stopped along the Interstate assisting other drivers. 

Lt. E. Jorgensen 

It is easy to become lost in thought while driving a route that one may take daily on a commute. Jorgensen asks that drivers be aware of their surroundings and situations while they are behind the wheel.

It is not only curious to slow down and or change lanes while passing an emergency vehicle stopped on the roadways, it is the law. Law does differ depending on the type of roadway one may be traveling when they come upon an emergency vehicle.  

Lt. E. Jorgensen 

By remaining vigilant while driving and following the passing laws, motorists can help to keep first line responders safe while they work to keep the roads and motorists safe.