Emergency Crews are raising awareness about traffic safety in Southern Kentucky

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.-An alarming new survey shows roadside crashes are on the rise nationwide because of distracted driving. According to a survey by the national safety council, more than 70 percent of drivers are taking photos and videos whenever they see emergency crews on the side of the road.

It’s the new rubber necking, people taking photos, videos and using social media to document traffic stops and collisions. Kentucky State Troopers have seen how distracted driving makes their jobs a lot more dangerous.

“The Trooper that was assisting a motorist on the side of I-65, while she was out providing assistance a car struck her cruiser. It had the blue lights on and everything. It turns out that driver was reading a text message,” said Daniel Priddy, KSP Trooper.

Drivers aren’t just taking photos and videos while driving, more than 60 percent post to social media about the incidents.

 “It’s not just us. The fire fighters, construction workers, tow truck operators, highway safety. Everybody that’s on the side of the road they have families, and we just want the public to know that we want to get home to our families,” said Priddy.

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways is working to increase awareness on the roadways with highway safety patrol trucks.

“It gives drivers the awareness that there’s an incident. Whether it’s a crash, or construction site. These trucks are equipped with a lot of emergency lights, and a message board of it’s own that will tell motorist that there’s a lane closure,” said Joe Plunk, Chief Engineer at the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet Department of Highways District 3.

From KSP blue lights to KYTC patrol truck, it’s all there to get your attention, but if your eyes are on your phone instead of on the road you still may miss the signs.

“The responsibility is ultimately on the driver to drive safe and to avoid distractions,” said Plunk.

Kentucky state troopers are raising awareness about the issue during distracted driving awareness month.