According to a series of news reports, an accident involving a state trooper in Oregon was rushed to the hospital after being ejected from his vehicle due to a crash. The accident was allegedly caused by a driver who was distracted.
The reports claim that the crash occurred on Interstate 5 in Marion County. The 25-year-old driver involved in the crash was in the fast lane when he took his eyes off the road. According to several reports, the driver looked back up to check whether the traffic had slowed and ended up swerving to the left shoulder to avoid crashing into the vehicles ahead.
As he swerved, his vehicle crashed into the trooper who was parked in the shoulder to conduct speed enforcement. The impact caused the officer to be ejected. The distracted driver’s vehicle ended up rolling over on the highway.
Both the trooper and the distracted driver were hospitalized as a result of the crash. According to the reports, they are expected to be OK. After the crash, the driver was issued a citation for careless driving.
To motorists nationwide, distracted driving continues to be one of the most dangerous activities. Yet, many still admit to using their phones while behind the wheel frequently.
To bicycle and motorcycle riders, the threat is just as concerning. But to them, the risks are almost unavoidable since drivers are often the ones using their phones or other electronics while behind the wheel.
If you’re a driver and you’re serious about safety, put your phone down the minute you sit behind the wheel of your vehicle. Also, make sure to keep in mind that other activities maybe just as distracting as using a phone while behind the wheel. They are eating, drinking, handling a child in the back seat, a pet, or reaching out to catch an object that has fallen.
Motorists should never ignore the possible risks. To avoid similar accidents, avoid distraction and stay away from intoxicated driving. Drivers, riders, and pedestrians sharing the road will thank you.
For more on this crash, you may follow this link to read the full report.
