This week is National Traffic Incident Response Awareness Week. The observation is meant to bring attention to the hazards faced by those working unplanned incidents, like traffic accidents, on Michigan roads.
Emergency Responders are still being struck and killed at alarming rates, according to the Michigan Department of Transportation. This year’s theme for the yearly observance is “Slow Down. Move Over. Be Safe.” Those actions can save lives.
MDOT encourages motorists to make sure their vehicle is in good working condition, and pack a roadside emergency kit for their vehicles. Kits should include batteries, a flashlight, a phone charger, water and non-perishable food, blankets, a first aid kit, and jumper cables.
The Move Over Law requires drivers to slow down at least 10 miles per hour under the speed limit for any kind of stationary emergency vehicles with flashing lights, including roadside tow trucks and courtesy vehicles operated by MDOT, garbage trucks, and road maintenance and utility service vehicles with amber lights.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
