Editor’s note: This crash is an excellent reminder of something anyone who’s ever ridden in, or operated, a fire apparatus already knows; other drivers are not paying attention to us! Use as many lights and sirens as you want ... you’ll still have a hard time competing with text messages, video games, sound systems, fast food, etc.
The prevalence of distracted driver syndrome makes it even more important to safely operate fire department vehicles by stopping at red lights and stop signs, driving the speed limit, and avoiding negative right-of-way situations unless absolutely imperative to complete your response.
It’s also vital to recognize that fire department drivers are not immune to distractions and should focus on driving, instead of using mobile computer terminals, radios, or other devices.
Chief Adam K. Thiel, FireRescue1 Editorial Advisor
KATY, Texas — Investigators say a teen distracted by sending text messages on her cell phone caused a car crash into a fire truck in Katy.
The accident took place at approximately 11:30 p.m. Thursday in the intersection of the Katy Freeway frontage road and State Highway 99.
The 18-year-old woman was driving westbound on the Interstate 10 service road when investigators say she drove past a red traffic light and the car struck the front end of the West I-10 Fire Department truck that was traveling southbound from SH 99.
The teen driver was taken to Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital in stable condition and two firefighters were treated for minor injuries.
Based on statistics from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, May 20 is considered the deadliest day for teen drivers. More than 49 percent of teens report sending text message as a driving distraction, which is a significant increase from the 31 percent reported in 2005.
Republished with permission from KRIV FOX 26.