National Crash Responder Safety Week: Responder Fatalities Rise Nationally

Motorists reminded to “Move Over” for emergency and work vehicles as responder fatalities rise nationally.

The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) is promoting National Crash Responder Safety Week, observed from November 18 to 22, to raise awareness about the importance of protecting first responders, emergency personnel, and roadway workers. This year alone, 32 responders nationwide have been struck and killed while working near moving traffic.

Governor Phil Murphy has signed a proclamation declaring this week as National Crash Responder Safety Week in New Jersey, emphasizing the need for public compliance with the state’s Move Over Law (N.J.S.A. 39:4-92.2).

“Crash Responder Safety Week raises public awareness of the dangers our emergency personnel and other roadway workers face every day,” NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor said. “We all have a responsibility to protect those who protect you. When you see emergency personnel and workers on the road, slow down and move over—it’s the law!”

Understanding the Move Over Law

The Move Over Law requires motorists to:

• Change lanes: Move over at least one lane when approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or highway maintenance vehicles with flashing lights, if it is safe to do so.
• Reduce speed: If unable to change lanes safely, drivers must slow down to create a safer environment for responders.

Failure to adhere to these requirements endangers responders and drivers alike, especially at crash scenes where traffic is still flowing.

New Jersey Leads in Traffic Incident Management Training

NJDOT Commissioner Fran O’Connor highlighted New Jersey’s proactive approach to responder safety through Traffic Incident Management (TIM) training, which equips responders with strategies to manage incidents safely and efficiently. The state’s TIM program has trained more than 37,000 first responders, including police, firefighters, medical personnel, and tow operators.

TIM training focuses on:

• Enhancing responder safety.
• Reducing secondary crashes.
• Minimizing traffic disruptions.

New Jersey’s TIM program, recognized by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for its best practices, offers both in-person and online training modules. Responders can access these resources through the program’s comprehensive website, NJTIM.org.

Collaborative Efforts Save Lives

Crash response efforts involve coordination among multiple agencies, including transportation, law enforcement, fire services, and towing companies. NJDOT’s TIM program provides hands-on exercises to improve coordination and ensure rapid, safe resolutions to incidents.

Motorists are urged to respect roadway laws and prioritize safety by remaining vigilant, moving over for responders, and slowing down when approaching crash scenes. For more information or to enroll in TIM training, visit NJTIM.org.

By adhering to these practices, New Jersey aims to protect the lives of responders and the public, while minimizing disruptions on state roadways.