This article originally appeared on wric.com
First responders in the Commonwealth are speaking out after recently released dash cam video showing a Virginia state trooper getting hit-by her own car during a traffic stop. The crash happened just before 3 am on Tuesday, June 11.
First responders at the Richmond Ambulance Authority on Thursday spoke about the dangers they and other civil servants come face to face with when they are on the job.
Officials with VSP say that the trooper who was involved in that accident is expected to recover. However, they say even though she wasn’t seriously hurt by the physical impact of the crash, it will still leave a mark.
“It’s scary because it could be any of us. She’s just out doing her job trying to make sure people are safe,” said Britany Buckler-Hoffmaster is a lieutenant with Richmond Ambulance Authority.
The middle of the night crash on the side of Interstate 495 in Fairfax County is serving as yet another reminder for first responders about the dangers they face when they leave for work every day.
“It could have ended very badly. She could have not gotten back up,” Buckler-Hoffmaster said.
She saw the video and remembered a time she and her partner were in a similar position and says when it comes to calls for service — some are more dangerous than others.
“I’ve grabbed my partner by their radio strap and pulled them away from the car when somebody woke up and went to take off. I would say car accidents are probably some of the most dangerous calls that we go to simply because there are so many factors,” she added.
As an increasing number of drivers continue to flood roads and interstates during the summer, Buckler-Hoffmaster says it’s vital for people to remember the “Move Over Law” in Virginia.
“Obviously, just pay attention, be safe if you’re able to move over, please do,” Buckler-Hoffmaster said.
The law requires drivers to move over one lane if passing stopped emergency vehicles with flashing lights, such as police, fire and rescue and ambulances. The law also applies to any other vehicles with flashing hazards. State troopers and others wish drivers would take the “Move Over Law” more seriously.
“It’s a constant thing where even when I’m out on the side of the road either working an accident or writing a summons to somebody. I’m having to yell at people to move over in order to make sure they are able to tow a vehicle safely,” said Virginia State Trooper EJ Pritchett.
Buckler-Hoffmaster says something else that people don’t think about enough is the state of mind of the first responder is left in after the crash.
“And if nothing else, even if they’re not physically scarred, the mental scars, the stress, the extra added stress that comes with having to go to roadway incidents,” she said.
Officials say alcohol was a factor in the crash in Fairfax. The person that hit the trooper was arrested for a DUI and remains in custody.
