If you spot construction workers or a police officer on the side of the road today, make sure you move over and give them plenty of room, or you might just end up with a traffic ticket.
That’s because today is the 15 year anniversary of the death of Ted Foss, a trooper who was struck and killed on Interstate 90 while making a traffic stop.
“Every time I make a traffic stop or investigate a crash on Minnesota roads, I’m looking over my shoulder, hoping drivers are paying attention,” said Lt. Dan Lewis, who informed Foss’ mother about the accident 15 years ago. “I’ve been hit 11 times by cars while doing my job. That’s 11 times too many.”
Foss’ mother also issued a statement about the enforcement and her son’s passing.
“I wake up every day thinking Ted will walk through the door at any moment. He would be alive today if the driver would have moved over and let Ted do his job in a safe way,” Foss said. “On the 15th anniversary of my son’s death, please remember to keep your eye on the road and move over to protect those trying to do their jobs.”
Move On Over
Although Foss was a police officer, the extra patrols aren’t just targeted at drivers who don’t move over for law enforcement. Under the Ted Foss law, drivers must move over for all personnel working on roadsides, which includes construction workers, roadside maintenance workers, emergency personnel and more.
The law states that, when on a road with two or more lanes going the same direction, a driver is required to move over one full lane from the stopped emergency vehicle or roadside personnel. In the event that drivers cannot safely switch lanes, they are required to slow down and drive with caution.
“Please move over when you see flashing lights on the side of the road so we can do the same at the end of our shift,” Lewis said.
No troopers have been killed since the law’s inception in 2001, but drivers continue to collide with parked police cars. The State Patrol also announced that they have written 435 citations for not moving over, and issued 1,432 warnings.
So if you’ve driving this week, make sure you move over for anyone working on the side of the road. Not only will it help keep workers safe, but it will help you avoid a costly ticket!
