Distracted driving is a major risk to crash responders, as drivers often become distracted by emergency scenes, leading to increased risk for both the public and emergency personnel. To protect responders, drivers must practice safe habits like avoiding cell phone use, slowing down, and moving over for emergency vehicles. Employers should also prohibit employees from using their phones while driving for work purposes to reduce risk.
Distractions that endanger responders:
Cell phone use: Many drivers admit to taking photos, texting, or posting on social media while passing emergency scenes, a behavior that decreases significantly under normal circumstances.
“Rubbernecking”: Drivers intentionally slow down to look at the accident, which creates a domino effect that backs up traffic and creates new hazards.
Lack of awareness: Some drivers are unaware of “Move Over” laws, which require drivers to move over a lane or slow down when passing an emergency vehicle with lights on.
How to protect crash responders:
Slow Down & Move Over: When approaching an emergency scene, move over one lane away from the stopped vehicle if it is safe to do so. If you cannot move over, slow down to a safe speed.
Avoid distractions: Do not use your cell phone for calling, texting, or taking photos while driving near an incident.
Focus on driving: Keep your eyes on the road and your mind on the task of driving. Avoid eating, drinking, or engaging in other distractions.
Obey all signs and instructions: Pay attention to temporary traffic control signs and instructions from first responders directing traffic.
Do not engage in “rubbernecking”: Avoid slowing down to look at the incident. Keep traffic moving smoothly and safely.
Employers should take action: Employers should have policies in place to prohibit employees from texting while driving as it greatly increases the risk of injury or death.
