Despite all of the new Move Over laws that have been
enacted there are still too many first responders losing their lives in the
line of duty. The towing and recovery
industry is no exception to these meaningless deaths that occur for a variety
of reasons that include speed, drugs, alcohol, fatigue along with distracted
drivers using smart phones and texting.
The Wall of the Fallen located at the International
Towing and Recovery Museum in Chattanooga now includes over 350 names of towing
professionals who have been victims of Struck-By Incidents. On September 10th, 2016 another
set of names will be added. The yearly count usually averages around 40.
With towing and recovery professionals being the only
private sector group of first responders, receiving accurate accounting of LODD’s
has been a challenge. ResponderSafety.com tracks these incidents but still obtaining
accurate information is difficult. The number may be higher than reported.
As the towing museum works to compile more accurate
statistics, we would appreciate information from other first responder groups
that are aware of LODD incidents that involve towing professionals.
Lastly, like many of you we are working for the safety
of all first responders. That includes increased education and awareness of
“Move Over” laws along with advocating heightened enforcement and stiffer penalties
for violators. Contact us should you wish more information on specific
programs.
Angela Barnett is the Respondersafety.com Liaison to the Towing and Recovery Industry
International Towing Museum