The Tennessee Highway Patrol has released dramatic dashcam and body camera footage showing the moment a passing vehicle crashed into the rear of a patrol cruiser during a traffic stop on Interstate 65 in Davidson County.
According to the agency, the collision occurred this week while a state trooper was conducting a roadside stop. Dash camera video shows a vehicle striking the back of the patrol car with enough force to push it into the vehicle the trooper had pulled over.
Body camera footage recorded from inside the cruiser captures the violent impact, with the force of the crash knocking the camera from the trooper’s uniform and sending it tumbling onto the floorboard.
Highway Patrol Uses Incident To Reinforce Move Over Law
The Tennessee Highway Patrol said it released the footage to remind drivers of the importance of following Tennessee’s Move Over Law whenever they encounter emergency vehicles stopped along the roadside.
In a statement accompanying the video, the agency urged motorists to “move over when it is safe to do so.” If changing lanes is not possible, drivers should slow down and proceed with caution.
Officials said the incident serves as a reminder that motorists should always move over when it is safe or reduce their speed when approaching vehicles displaying flashing emergency lights.
What Drivers Should Know About the Move Over Law
Tennessee’s Move Over Law is designed to improve safety for law enforcement officers, first responders, and other roadside workers performing their duties near moving traffic.
Drivers approaching a stopped emergency or service vehicle displaying flashing lights should move into a lane farther away from the vehicle whenever it is safe to do so.
If traffic or road conditions make a lane change unsafe, motorists must reduce their speed and proceed with caution. The law applies to law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, tow and recovery vehicles, highway maintenance vehicles, utility service vehicles, and solid waste vehicles displaying the appropriate emergency or warning lights.
Officials Urge Drivers To Stay Alert
Roadside incidents continue to pose serious risks for emergency responders, who often work just feet from fast-moving traffic. By sharing the footage, the Tennessee Highway Patrol hopes drivers will remember that a few extra seconds of caution can help prevent devastating crashes.
Officials urge motorists to remain attentive, avoid distractions behind the wheel, and always watch for flashing lights ahead. Whether responding to emergencies or conducting routine traffic stops, first responders rely on drivers to make safe decisions that protect everyone on the roadway.
Drivers must make sure to move over or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles to help ensure that everyone has the opportunity to return home safely.