Crash Responder Safety Week, Nov. 18-22, highlights the critical need for drivers to slow down, move over and protect first responders working in hazardous roadside situations. Police1’s coverage provides strategies, essential tools and expert insights focused on law enforcement safety and public awareness.
Eradicating dangers and deaths on highways may seem like an impossible challenge, but the right data and analytics can help law enforcement agencies and states work together to achieve it
SLOW DOWN, MOVE OVER
As law enforcement officers continue to be killed on our nation’s roadways, we must continue to message about the importance of “Move Over” laws
How a Texas department enhanced officer traffic safety and accountability after two of its officers were struck and killed by passing vehicles
A reporter being hit by a vehicle during a live news report highlighted the danger of working near roadway incidents – a danger that proved fatal for two LEOs this past week
Virginia patrol officer’s dashcam video is another reminder that traffic stops can go from routine to life-threatening in the blink of an eye
When you hit the lights and pull over what can only be described as a heavily fortified defensive position on wheels, don’t just approach blind
The passenger side contact remains an essential strategy for officer safety, but recognizing its limitations can enhance the odds in the officer’s favor
OFFICER SAFETY MUST-KNOWS
Fifty years ago I was taught that the right-side approach on a traffic stop is the safest – and that message is just as relevant for recruits today
These programs help to reduce traffic congestion as a result of collisions, while increasing officer safety on the roadways
LEOs rank among the highest number of “struck-by” fatalities of any responders. Could helmets be one answer to this safety crisis?
The data speaks for itself
At high-risk roadway incidents, reduce your risk by maximizing time, distance and shielding
A simple shift in mindset to help officers avoid and survive while working a highway crash
Combine hazmat principles with high-visibility vests, traffic cones, scene lighting and personal lighting devices to reduce MVC scene risks
IN THE NEWS
Officer Jordan Steinke still faces charges in the incident where she placed the suspect inside a patrol vehicle parked on railroad tracks
The 40-page lawsuit states that the defendants did not provide a safe environment and prevent foreseeable injury during her 2022 arrest
An officer had warned a group of men to move onto the shoulder – out of harm’s way from passing vehicles – moments before a vehicle crashed into the cruiser
Each face multiple charges including reckless endangerment, second-degree assault, attempt to commit manslaughter and reckless endangerment
A commander had recommended suspension and a demotion for the officer due to his lack of care for his own safety and the safety of his officers
The woman, who was handcuffed in the backseat, was seriously injured when the train struck the patrol vehicle parked on railroad tracks
The incident began when officers were called to a road rage incident involving a woman tailgating a vehicle and pulling a gun
Over 532 people were killed in police pursuit crashes in 2020 alone, according to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
