TEXAS – With Thanksgiving travel about to ramp up, AAA Texas and local law enforcement are reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert on the roads. Officials say this time of year, part of the broader holiday travel season, is one of the busiest and most dangerous for motorists, especially for roadside responders like law enforcement officers and tow truck drivers.
During a press conference on Nov. 12, AAA Texas spokesperson Doug Shupe highlighted the risks faced by emergency personnel on the roadside.
“Last year, 46 emergency roadside responders, police officers, firefighters, EMTs, and tow truck operators never made it home,” Shupe said. “They were struck while helping others at the roadside, and we want to prevent these types of tragedies from occurring.”
Major Anthony McConnell of the Harris County Sheriff’s Office spoke about the department’s Motorist Assistance Program (MAP), which has helped more than 1.1 million drivers since 1986. MAP deputies and tow truck drivers regularly put themselves between speeding vehicles and stranded motorists, and McConnell says many incidents are avoidable.
“The Texas law is simple,” McConnell said. “You see flashing lights, you’re required to move one lane. You’re unable to move over one lane, you must slow down 20 miles an hour below the speed limit. Please slow down, move over, give us some room. Let us help these people that are stranded on the side of the road.”
Tow truck driver Corey Larson shared a personal story illustrating the dangers on the road. Two years ago, he responded to a stranded motorist with a child on the freeway. While setting up his truck, an 18-wheeler swerved to avoid the same hazard that had disabled the vehicle, coming within a foot of striking Larson and the motorist.
“At that moment, I was just as terrified as the lady I was helping was,” Larson said. “People really need to be aware of the slowdown move-over law. It really does save lives.”
AAA’s latest research shows that while two-thirds of drivers have heard of the law, many are unsure what it requires. Surveillance footage reveals that 36% of drivers do nothing when passing an emergency vehicle or a tow truck with flashing lights, and only 58% slow down or move over for tow trucks.
As families prepare to travel this holiday season, AAA Texas and law enforcement urge drivers to exercise caution. A few seconds of care — slowing down or changing lanes — can save lives.
For assistance on Houston-area freeways, MAP trucks are available 24/7. Drivers can call 713-CALL-MAP (713-225-5627) for free roadside help.