When we think about the danger that law enforcement officers place themselves in on a daily basis, it often conjures up the image of chasing violent criminals or stopping domestic disputes. However, not all danger that they face is the same. One of the most dangerous situations that an officer may find him or herself in occurs on the side of the road.
Police officers find themselves in an extremely vulnerable position when they are providing assistance or pulling a car over on the side of the road. This situation leaves them open to injury or death caused by approaching traffic that is moving at very high rates of speed.
Keep an Eye Out for Emergency Vehicles
In 1994, a South Carolina paramedic was struck and injured at the scene of an accident. In the hope of protecting other officers in the same or similar situation, South Carolina implemented the first Move Over law in 1996. After an increasing number of injuries and even fatalities of individuals in the line of duty, the other 49 states followed suit, passing their own version of the Move Over law.
North Carolina’s Move Over law requires that drivers who are approaching a stationary emergency vehicle that has its lights flashing (including towing and recovery vehicles), that are traveling in the same direction, to vacate the lane closest if safe and possible to do so, or to slow to a safe speed. This helps to provide a good amount of space on the roadway to help prevent potential accidents.
Other vehicles included in the law are:
Recently a new law was put in place in North Carolina that increases the penalties for certain violations of the state’s Move Over law. The new law creates a more severe felony, with possible prison time (even for those with a clean record) when serious injury or death occurs. The new law also makes it unlawful for vehicles to use flashing or strobing amber lights (with some exceptions).
The bill was in response to the December 2018 death of Lumberton officer, Jason Quick, who was killed after a passing car struck him while he tried to walk across the highway.
Avoid Distracted Driving
Due to the serious nature of the potential risks, it is imperative that drivers remain alert at all times while behind the wheel. By keeping your attention on the road at all times, you can spot these emergency vehicles with enough time to safely move over a lane. Such a simple act can make such a big difference.
This is why it is so important to refrain from engaging in distracting activities while driving. Not only can it pose a real safety issue, but also it is simply illegal. Remember to keep your eyes on the road this holiday season – and throughout the year.
Henson Fuerst Can Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another, it can have a profound impact on many aspects of your life. No one should have to pay for the careless mistakes of someone else.
The experienced North Carolina personal injury lawyers can help you to navigate the legal system and get what it is that you deserve. At Henson Fuerst we fight for what serves you best. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, call us at 919-781-1107 today!