State officials urge drivers to slow down and move over

By By: Nicole Scott

State and federal officials are teaming up with the Save MO Lives campaign to highlight National Crash Responder Safety Week.

The Federal Highway Administration declared Nov. 18 through 22 Crash Responder Safety Week. The theme is “Slow Down, Move Over: It’s the Law.” The state has a “Move Over Law,” which requires motorists to switch lanes when approaching Missouri Department of Transportation crews, law enforcement or other emergency vehicles with flashing lights.

The Save MO Lives campaign is part of the Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety which partners with the state’s highway patrol and MoDOT to share public awareness safety campaigns throughout the year. According to the Federal Highway Administration, traffic incidents are the leading cause of death for EMS responders and law enforcement officers.

”Crash Responder Safety Week serves as an important reminder for drivers to be mindful of our dedicated first responders, who work tirelessly to keep our roadways safe every day,” said Chris Engelbrecht, the MoDOT’s director of safety and emergency management. “These individuals put their lives on the line to protect us, so it’s crucial to show respect by following the state’s move-over law, staying focused, and reducing speed when approaching emergency vehicles.”

According to MoDOT, last year there were more than 136,000 traffic crashes along the state’s roadways which required an emergency response.

“It’s important to give our responders the space they need to work safely, ensuring everyone can make it home to their families at the end of the day,” Engelbrecht said.

For more information about National Crash Responder Safety Week, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (888-275-6636) or visit www.modot.org.