MADISON — Governor Tony Evers has designated November 2-6 as Crash Responder Safety Week in Wisconsin. This initiative aligns with nearly 140 municipalities and counties across the state, contributing to a national campaign aimed at protecting those who work on the roadside.
The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) and emergency responders are calling on drivers to either move over or slow down upon encountering flashing lights on the highway. This marks a decade of Wisconsin's participation in the campaign, focused on elevating awareness of the dangers faced by first responders.
“When you see flashing lights on the roadside, move over or slow down. It's more than a driving rule, it's a decision that could save a life,” stated Kristina Boardman, WisDOT Secretary.
In Wisconsin, around 128,000 traffic collisions occur each year. Over the last five years, 72 emergency responders have been struck while working on the roadside.
“You don't need medical training to help save lives at a crash scene. Staying alert, reducing speed, and safely moving over provides EMS crews the necessary space to treat patients effectively, thereby preventing further tragedies,” commented Alan DeYoung, executive director of the Wisconsin Emergency Medical Services Association.
“Every driver plays a part in ensuring that everyone reaches home safely,” DeYoung emphasized. “Maintaining focus on the road is crucial—someone's family is relying on you.”
First responders from fire, law enforcement, emergency medical services, and towing operations frequently work mere feet away from active traffic. The same caution should extend to construction crews and stranded motorists alike.
Secondary crashes, occurring after initial incidents, pose additional risks to both victims and first responders. Since 2021, Wisconsin has recorded over 3,500 such crashes, resulting in 29 fatalities and 1,650 injuries in the past five years according to WisDOT.
“Every day, distractions, excessive speed, and reckless behavior put at risk not only our officers and emergency responders but also motorists who are stopped by the roadside,” remarked Tim Carnahan, Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent. “When we are responding to incidents, our safety is in your hands. Please create space by moving over or slowing down for flashing lights or stranded vehicles.”
To honor Crash Responder Safety Week, the Hoan Bridge in Milwaukee will be lit up later this week.