(UNDATED) The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is asking drivers across the state to help protect those who protect us.
Gov. Tony Evers has proclaimed November 17–21 as Crash Responder Safety Week, joining nearly 50 Wisconsin counties and communities in recognizing the risks first responders face when working on the roadside.
“Every year, there are about 128,000 traffic crashes in Wisconsin, and each one impacts the safety of emergency responders,” said WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman. “We must work together to protect those who protect us. Behind every safety vest and flashing light is a person who chose to serve their community.”
First responders — including firefighters, EMS, law enforcement, and tow truck operators — often work just feet from fast-moving traffic. Over the past five years, 73 emergency responders in Wisconsin have been struck by vehicles while on duty.
State law requires drivers to move over or slow down for emergency lights and put down handheld phones when passing through a crash or work zone. WisDOT also encourages drivers to “Steer It, Clear It” — meaning, if a vehicle is drivable and there are no injuries, it should be moved off the road to a safe spot before calling for help.
“Crash scenes can quickly become dangerous when drivers aren’t paying attention,” said Wisconsin State Patrol Superintendent Tim Carnahan. “To prevent secondary crashes, drivers must be alert and give emergency responders space to do their jobs.”
Since 2020, Wisconsin has recorded nearly 3,600 secondary crashes, resulting in 38 deaths and more than 1,700 injuries.
WisDOT says the state is a national leader in Traffic Incident Management (TIM) training, which teaches responders how to safely manage roadside emergencies. Nearly two-thirds of Wisconsin’s 39,000 responders have completed TIM training.
Crash Responder Safety Week is being highlighted statewide through social media campaigns, highway message boards, and even the lighting of Milwaukee’s Hoan Bridge to honor emergency responders.
Drivers can plan ahead and check real-time traffic conditions at 511wi.gov or through the free 511 Wisconsin app.
