A Charlotte-Mecklenburg police officer was injured Monday afternoon in a pair of crashes on Beatties Ford Road in northwest Charlotte, according to police.
The series of events started at approximately 12:20 p.m. when two cars wee involved in a crash on Beatties Ford Road at St. Paul Street. According to police, the officer arrived to block and guide traffic. When the officer’s car arrived on the scene, it was crashed into by another vehicle.
The officer, along with two other people, was transported to the hospital for non-life-threatening injuries.
Since 1999, over 159 U.S. law enforcement officers have been killed after being struck by vehicles along America’s highways. In fact, several groups and efforts have formed as a result of the peril officers face every day during traffic stops and other roadside stops. However, with the driving population continuously changing to include more drunk or aggressive drivers and violent criminals, it’s getting harder and harder to keep up. Not to mention, the vehicle mix has been steadily changing with a more heavy trucks and SUVs on the roads. In short, If you are pulling over on the side of the highway, no matter what the reason, whether you are a police officer or citizen, you should practice extreme caution and awareness of your surroundings. The most obvious concern is that you are visible to passing drivers. Also, be sure that you pull off to the ride side of the road as far as possible and turn on your hazard lights. Use emergency triangles or flares to alert drivers as you attend to your situation.
Taking the right precautions can make the difference of life or death. However, even the most vigilant of drivers can be involved in a serious accident. When you or someone you love has been involved in a serious accident, the Car Accident Attorneys of Reeves, Aiken, and Hightower can be there to assist you on your path to recovery. We can investigate all aspects of the accident and hold all parties accountable for your loss. Call us today and speak directly with one of our lawyers at 704-499-9000 or 877-374-5999 toll-free.