TxDOT & DPS Observe Crash Responder Safety Week (Nov 17-21st) w/ New Campaign to Protect Roadside Workers
Texas’s massive highway network is patrolled and maintained by thousands of law enforcement officers, roadside workers and other first responders who risk their lives every day, often working just feet away from heavy or high-speed traffic (making them vulnerable to serious injury or death in the event of a crash.) That risk to their lives is amplified when people speed or drive distracted.
It’s up to motorists to help keep them safe. That’s why TxDOT is commemorating Crash Responder Safety Week (Nov. 17th– 21st) by launching its new “Be Safe. Drive Smart” campaign today urging Texas drivers to always move over or slow down for roadside workers, law enforcement and other first responders
Texas law requires motorists to move over an entire lane or slow to 20 mph below the posted speed limit when approaching law enforcement, tow trucks, utility vehicles, emergency responders, and TxDOT vehicles with activated overhead lights on the side of the road. Failure to follow the Move Over or Slow Down law can result in a fine of up to $1,250 for a first offense. Drivers who cause serious injuries may face jail time and a fine of up to $4,000.
Please see our press release below (which includes TxDOT’s safety tips for drivers when approaching roadside law enforcement, first responders, tow trucks, utility service vehicles, and TxDOT vehicles with flashing lights on) and let me know if you’re interested in reporting our news or in working with us on a story.
For your possible use in a story, here’s a link to our campaign soundbites with TxDOT roadside worker Brandon Gordon:
And here’s a link to our soundbites with TX Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee:
And here’s a link to our campaign PSAs, including with Governor Abbott:
Lastly, here’s a link to our campaign b-roll:
This week's The Seabreeze Beacon
Never miss any important news. Subscribe to our newsletter.
