West Virginia (WOAY) The West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety Program is joining emergency response agencies across the state to recognize Crash Responder Safety Week, November 2-6.
The week is designed to raise awareness about the dangers faced by first responders and roadside workers, including law enforcement, firefighters, EMS personnel, tow operators, and highway maintenance crews.
Officials say responders routinely put their lives on the line while assisting crash victims and clearing dangerous scenes.
But distracted, speeding, and impaired drivers continue to put those workers at risk.
West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety Program Director Jack McNeely says drivers have a responsibility to slow down, move over, and stay alert whenever emergency personnel are working along the roadway.
State law requires motorists approaching stationary emergency or public safety vehicles displaying flashing or hazard lights to move over when it is safe to do so.
If changing lanes isn’t possible, drivers must slow down to a safe speed.
Officials are also reminding motorists to put away distractions, watch for warning lights and signs, and give roadside crews plenty of room to work.
For more information about Crash Responder Safety Week, visit respondersafety.com.
You can also find more information about the West Virginia Governor’s Highway Safety Program at highwaysafety.wv.gov.
