Drivers reminded to move over, slow down for first responders as winter weather approaches

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MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Approximately every four minutes in Wisconsin, a crash happens on one of the state's highways. This leads to an array of responders; firefighters, police officers and tow truck drivers, all arriving to the scene to assist.

Wisconsin sees roughly 134,700 traffic crashes each year. Since 2017, more than 350 first responders have been injured while working inside their emergency vehicle or at the scene of a crash.

"Thousands of women and men throughout Wisconsin dedicate their lives and careers to our safety as first responders," said WisDOT Secretary Craig Thompson. "We play an active role to keep them safe when traveling on Wisconsin roadways. Two simple steps: move over or slow down, can make a big difference in everyone's safety."

Of the eight Wisconsin State Patrol officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, four of them occurred while the trooper was responding to another incident on the side of the roadway.

"We put ourselves out there to keep everybody else safe," said Trooper Carlin Brien. "We know that there's inherent danger in our job."

While troopers and other crash responders might be aware of the dangers their jobs can present, they still continue to share an important message with Wisconsin drivers: when you see safety lights, move over.

"Slow down, move over when you see lights," Trooper Brien said. "Not necessarily police lights, but first responders, tow trucks, anything like that. Slow down, move over and get some extra space."

Wisconsin's Move Over Law has been in effect since 2001, requiring drivers to shift lanes or slow down to help provide a safety zone for a squad car, ambulance, fire truck, tow truck, utility vehicle or highway maintenance vehicle stopped on the side of the road with lights flashing.

WisDOT and first responders are hoping Crash Responder Awareness Week will serve as an important reminder for drivers out on the roads, especially with winter weather possible this week.

"Put your cellphone down. Don't mess with the radio, especially when weather conditions are adverse," Trooper Brien said. "Make sure you're keeping your safe distance between cars."

Monday night, Milwaukee's Hoan Bridge will be lit to recognize Crash Responder Safety Week.

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