NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Tennessee Highway Patrol reported three crashes involving law enforcement officers over two days on local highways, culminating in a trooper injury.
On August 4, a trooper was injured in a four-vehicle crash on I-65 South near Old Hickory Boulevard while conducting a traffic stop. The driver involved was charged with a fourth DUI. The trooper sustained minor injuries and is expected to return to duty shortly, according to authorities.
On August 5, another incident occurred when a driver crashed into a marked patrol vehicle on I-65 near CoolSprings Galleria. The Franklin police officer was outside the vehicle during the crash; the driver was charged with DUI.
Later that evening, a Metro police vehicle was struck on I-24 East while officers were managing traffic for another accident. The officer inside the vehicle was unharmed.
Authorities indicated they are relieved that none of these incidents resulted in fatalities. Major Travis Plotzer of the Tennessee Highway Patrol emphasized the risks officers face daily and reiterated the importance of the Move Over law, which requires drivers to shift lanes for any vehicle with flashing lights on the roadside.
“This is a reminder of the dangers we all face,” Major Plotzer stated. He urged drivers to remain vigilant and considerate, noting that the law applies not only to emergency vehicles but to anyone stopped on the shoulder.
For further information, contact Amanda Roberts at Amanda.Roberts@NewsChannel5.com.