NEWS RELEASE
COLORADO STATE PATROL
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Two Colorado State Patrol vehicles were hit by drivers within the past 24 hours on Colorado roadways during the recent winter storm after failing to slow down, or move over when they saw emergency vehicles on the shoulder or stopped.
The two separate incidents took place in Douglas County and Adams County when CSP Troopers were aiding in vehicle crashes. No injuries were reported.
“When winter weather returns, we know troopers and other roadside workers are at greater risk from motorists not factoring in poor road conditions or reduced space to work due to ice and snow,” said Colonel Matthew C. Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “Drivers put down the distractions and let go of excuses about needing to speed. The slow down, move over law requires you to move over a lane to give us room to work or slow down 20 mph under the posted limit. Please protect us, so we can protect you when you need us.”
This law is in place to protect emergency, tow, and maintenance workers that are vulnerable to injury and death because their jobs naturally expose them to the dangers of injury or death by working around passing vehicles. It is also there to protect the passing motorist from living with the consequence and memory of striking one of these workers.
Remember to use even more caution for any traffic or weather conditions on the roadways. Whatever speed you think you can go in adverse conditions; a good rule of thumb is to go 10 mph under that and your chances of crashing will be reduced.
To see additional photos please visit our Twitter account @CSP_news
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