A Kaufman County Sheriff’s deputy and a Forney police officer narrowly avoided being struck early Sunday after a passing vehicle crashed into a parked patrol unit while they were conducting a roadside investigation on a freeway.
Authorities said the officers were working a call on the shoulder of the roadway when the vehicle slammed into the police cruiser, missing the two first responders by only a few feet.
No injuries were immediately reported.
Officials Highlight Dangers of Roadside Response
The incident prompted law enforcement officials to remind motorists about dangers officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and other emergency responders face while working along busy roadways.
“This incident serves as an important reminder that traffic stops, crash scenes, and roadside investigations are among the most dangerous situations first responders face,” authorities said in a statement.
“Every time an emergency vehicle is stopped on the shoulder, the men and women serving our community are only feet away from passing traffic.”
Officials noted that roadside workers are especially vulnerable to serious injury or death when drivers fail to pay attention, speed, or become distracted behind the wheel.
“Roadside workers, law enforcement, and other first responders risk their lives every day, and drivers can help keep them safe by always moving over or slowing down,” the statement said.
Texas Move Over Law Requirements
Under Texas’ Move Over or Slow Down law, motorists approaching emergency vehicles with flashing overhead lights must move into a lane farther from the stopped vehicle whenever it is safe to do so.
If changing lanes is not possible or the roadway has only one lane in each direction, drivers are required to slow to 20 mph below the posted speed limit. On roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less, motorists must reduce their speed to 5 mph.
The law applies to law enforcement vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, tow trucks, utility vehicles, municipal waste trucks, and Texas Department of Transportation vehicles displaying activated emergency lights.
Since September 1, 2025, the law has also been expanded to include stationary vehicles operated by animal control officers and parking enforcement employees.
Penalties for Violations
Authorities said motorists who fail to comply with the Move Over law can face fines of up to $1,250 for a first offense.
Drivers who violate the law and cause a crash resulting in serious bodily injury may also face criminal jail time and fines of up to $4,000.
Officials urged drivers to remain alert whenever approaching emergency scenes.
“Your attention behind the wheel can save a life,” authorities said. “Help us ensure that every deputy, police officer, firefighter, EMS provider, and tow operator makes it home safely at the end of every shift.”
Law enforcement also offered several reminders for motorists:
- Stay alert when approaching emergency vehicles or roadside workers with flashing lights.
- Move into a lane farther away from stopped emergency vehicles whenever it is safe to do so.
- If changing lanes is not possible, slow to the speed required by law and proceed with caution.
Authorities said Sunday’s close call underscores how quickly routine roadside calls can become life-threatening when drivers fail to slow down or move over.
Provided by Dallas Express
