Kentuckians reminded to slow down during Crash Responder Safety Week
FRANKFORT, Ky. – It can take seconds to make a life-changing decision.
From Nov. 2-6, Crash Responder Safety Week is reminding Kentucky drivers that slowing down and moving over when approaching an emergency vehicle or disabled vehicle could save lives.
“Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to help Kentuckians, often during some of their most difficult moments,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “Let’s do all we can to protect each other and protect those who keep us safe by slowing down and moving over when you see flashing lights on the side of the road.”
According to the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Office of Highway Safety, Kentucky expanded its Slow Down, Move Over law in July 2024 to protect those stopped on the roadside.
Drivers must move over a lane if possible or slow down when approaching a stationary vehicles displaying flashing lights or warning signals, officials say.
“Everyone deserves to get home safely, including the people working along our roadways,” said Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Goodman. “When you see flashing lights or a vehicle stopped along the road, slow down, move over and give them room. Taking a few extra seconds to keep someone safe can make all the difference.”
Every year, lives are put at risk when drivers fail to slow down or move over for first responders.
In Kentucky, over the past three years, officials say crashes involving emergency vehicles in response to an incident resulted in more than 800 collisions, more than 290 injuries and six deaths.
