A new study conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety sheds light on the alarming dangers faced by roadside assistance providers who risk their lives daily to help others. The study reveals that the number of fatal crashes involving these workers may be significantly higher than previously reported.
According to the study, 123 roadside assistance providers were killed by passing vehicles between 2015 and 2021, a figure that dwarfs the approximate 34 noted in national crash data. This discrepancy is attributed to the failure of state police crash report forms to accurately identify the victims as roadside assistance providers, often categorizing them as "pedestrians."
Dr. David Yang, president and executive director of the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, emphasizes the importance of understanding the circumstances and causes of these fatal crashes in order to save lives. He urges drivers to focus on driving, observe the law, and slow down and move over when they see roadside assistance providers performing their duties.
Jake Nelson, AAA's traffic safety and advocacy director, emphasizes the need for collective action to address this safety challenge. He states, "Let's remember this study is about real people, not statistics. Roadside workers and all of us who drive by them have to take action to move towards zero traffic deaths."
The AAA Foundation's study highlights several key findings and recommends actions to mitigate the risks faced by roadside assistance providers. These include reinforcing the importance of "Slow down, Move Over" laws, utilizing countermeasures to prevent vehicles from striking workers, and providing training for roadside workers on how to prioritize work away from traffic.
The study also emphasizes the importance of the Safe System Approach (SSA) to transportation planning. The SSA leverages engineering and behavioral countermeasures to prevent traffic crashes and reduce injuries. The study suggests that compliance with Move Over laws alone is not enough, and states must address factors such as speed, impaired driving, and distraction that contribute to road departure crashes.
The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, established in 1947, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preventing traffic deaths and injuries through research and education. The foundation's research informs the development of educational materials for drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other road users.
AAA, which started in 1902, has become one of North America's largest membership organizations, providing roadside assistance, travel services, discounts, and financial and insurance services. With over 64 million members across North America, AAA continues to advocate for safe mobility and enhance the journey of its members.
As the study reveals the alarming risks faced by roadside assistance providers, it is crucial for drivers to be vigilant and prioritize the safety of these highway heroes. Slowing down, moving over, and following the laws can make a significant difference in preventing tragic accidents. By taking collective responsibility and implementing the recommended actions, we can work towards zero traffic deaths and ensure the safety of those who selflessly assist us on the side of the road.