The Missouri Department of Transportation’s highway workers are part of a larger group of emergency responders who put their lives on the line on Missouri’s highways responding to crash scenes. Alongside police officers, fire fighters, EMS, and tow truck operators, they respond to traffic incidents, assist drivers, and help keep traffic flowing.

According to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), traffic incidents are the leading cause of death for EMS responders and law enforcement officers. To remind motorists what’s on the line, the FHWA has declared the week of Nov. 18-22 as National Crash Responder Safety Week. 

"Crash Responder Safety Week serves as an important reminder for drivers to be mindful of our dedicated first responders, who work tirelessly to keep our roadways safe every day," said Chris Engelbrecht, MoDOT’s Director of Safety and Emergency Management. "These individuals put their lives on the line to protect us, so it's crucial to show respect by following the state’s move over law, staying focused, and reducing speed when approaching emergency vehicles."

Missouri’s Move Over law requires drivers to either change lanes or slow down when approaching stationary MoDOT, law enforcement or other emergency vehicles with flashing lights on. To help protect those who protect us, all 50 states enforce some form of the Move Over law. 

In 2023, more than 136,000 traffic crashes were reported on Missouri roadways that required emergency response. MoDOT emergency response personnel respond to more than 6,000 traffic incidents each month on average. 

Crash Responder Safety Week provides a valuable chance to remind drivers about Missouri's Move Over law, educate them on crash prevention, and promote critical training for all traffic incident responders. “It’s important to give our responders the space they need to work safely, ensuring everyone can make it home to their families at the end of the day,” said Chris Engelbrecht.