Posted in Pedestrian Accident,Tennessee Accident Law on August 1, 2016
Pedestrian Accident Involving THP Trooper Reported in Hickman County
A commercial vehicle struck a Tennessee Highway Patrol trooper late Friday night in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 40 in Hickman County.
According to a report by WKRN.com, the accident occurred near exit 163 and the Hickman-Dickson County line at around midnight.
The trooper had exited his vehicle to help investigate a prior accident when he was struck by the tractor-trailer.
The impact of the collision caused the trooper to suffer serious but non-life-threatening injuries, and he was transported to Vanderbilt University Medical Center to receive treatment. A statement by the THP says that the trooper was later released and is at home recovering.
Emergency responders and the THP closed the roadway for several hours while they investigated the crash. All lanes of I-40 East were reopened to traffic at around 4 a.m.
How Can You Drive Safely Around Police and Emergency Responders?
Police and emergency responders like paramedics, EMTs, and firefighters play vital roles in keeping drivers and Tennessee residents safe and secure, but in doing so, they often put their own lives and safety at risk.
Whether they’re responding to calls at high speeds, working in dangerous situations, or assisting stranded or injured motorists, police and emergency responders are at high risk of being seriously injured themselves when other drivers don’t pay attention or exercise caution.
To do your part in reducing the risks that these public servants face on a daily basis, always follow these tips when you get behind the wheel:
Tennessee’s Move Over Law requires that all drivers change lanes away from stopped emergency vehicles and road construction crews that are on the sides of interstates, highways, and other roadways throughout the state. Move over right away or as soon as it’s safe to do. In addition to significantly reducing the risks that these workers face, moving over also means you won’t get an expensive fine or ticket.
If you see or hear a police car, highway patrol car, ambulance, firetruck, or rescue vehicle approaching your location with its siren and lights activated, slow down, stop, or begin maneuvering your vehicle out of its path if you’re in the way. Emergency responders are at high risks of accidents when driving through intersections, and coming to a complete stop or clearing a path for them can make their jobs safer and easier. However, only move out of the way if it’s safe to do so.
If an emergency vehicle ends up in front of you on the interstate or highway, it’s important to maintain a safe distance. Because they often travel at high speeds and may stop abruptly due to other drivers or reaching the scene of the accident or call, these vehicles are unpredictable. Following too closely can mean that you won’t have enough time to properly react to sudden turns or reductions in speed. Always keep several car lengths of distance between your vehicle and a police car, ambulance, or firetruck to protect yourself and the emergency responders in front of you.
The Nashville auto accident attorneys at Matt Hardin Law know that emergency responders willingly put themselves in danger every time they respond to calls for help from the public. We appreciate their service, and we also know that the best way to protect these men and women is for drivers to be extra cautious and aware of safe driving techniques when they drive near emergency vehicles.
If you or someone you love was hurt in a car accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be eligible to file a claim for compensation. With more than two decades of combined experience, our legal team knows what it takes to build winning claims for innocent victims like you. To find out how we can assist you during this difficult time, dial (615) 200-1111 or complete a free online consultation form.
