KYTC spotlights Crash Responder Safety Week

Crash Responder Safety Week kicks off on November 17 and the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet is reminding motorists to stay alert and drive safely to keep first responders safe.

The cabinet is reminding drivers of Kentucky’s “Slow Down, Move Over” law which protects first responders, road crew workers and anyone in distress on the side of the road. The law requires motorists to either move over or slow down when a vehicle is stopped or workers are in the shoulder of the roadway.

Cabinet Secretary Jim Gray says slowing down and moving over is a simple action that can prevent injuries or even save a life, and it’s not only the law, but it’s the right thing to do. Governor Andy Beshear says first responders risk their lives every day to keep Kentuckians safe, which is why they are reminding folks that they can all do their part to protect those who protect others.

According to the cabinet, over the past three years, there have been more than 1,000 collisions involving emergency vehicles in response to an incident, more than 360 injuries and six deaths.