By NICK GOSNELL
Hutch Post
HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Newly released AAA research indicates that some drivers may not fully grasp the danger they pose to roadside workers.
"Ninety-nine percent of Kansas drivers responded that it's either very dangerous or somewhat dangerous for roadside workers if motorists don't comply with the Move Over law," said Shawn Steward with AAA Kansas. "92% of Kansas motorists said that they would support such a law, one-third of them, 33% of Kansas drivers, answered that they were unsure whether a law existed or thought there was no Move Over law."
An average of 24 emergency responders, including tow providers, are struck and killed by vehicles while working at the roadside each year.
The Move Over law was originally to protect law enforcement officers," Steward said. "Over the years, it's been expanded to reduce risk to roadside construction crews, emergency responders, tow operators and even waste collection vehicles. Most recently, it was broadened during the 2021 legislative session to include utility and telecommunications crews working alongside the road."
A AAA Tow Driver in Ohio was killed on July 4th while placing a disabled vehicle on the back of a flatbed on the side of the road. Only three weeks later, a AAA driver in Colorado was also struck and killed. As of August of this year, 14 tow providers have lost their lives while helping others at the roadside.