Springville Police officer Ryan Pinion received a typical call to work an interstate car fire on the evening of July 31. Pinion blocked the interstate, per policy, to ensure the safety of both the firefighters and passing motorist. While sitting in his cruiser, Pinion’s vehicle was struck from behind. Firefighters had to cut the roof of Pinion’s car in order to remove him from his police cruiser. He was rushed to the UAB Emergency Room with injuries. Pinion’s injuries were not life threatening and he is expected to make a full recovery.

This wreck serves as a reminder of the real dangers our police officers and first responders take upon themselves to keep the community safe every day when they go to work.

Officer Pinion’s wreck is an example of why the State of Alabama passed the Move-Over Law in 2009. The law states that if a motorist sees a vehicle on the side of the road with its emergency lights flashing (red, blue and amber), the motorist is required to move out of the lane closest to the vehicle if possible. If not safe to move over, the driver shall slow to a speed that is at least 15 miles per hour less than the posted speed limit, unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer. A violation of the Move-Over Law is a misdemeanor punishable by a fine. Police officers and first responders answer calls daily that potentially have deadly results. Whether checking on a house after it’s been broken into, questioning suspicious persons, serving warrants or guiding traffic. Officers and first responders take risks for the communities they serve. 

Springville Fire Chief, Richard Harvey, said that some of the firefighters that worked the vehicle fire and then assisted Pinion after his wreck, suffered from heat exhaustion. He explained that the safety gear that firefighters wear are cumbersome, heavy and very hot. Temperatures the afternoon of July 31 were almost 100 degrees with high humidity. Chief Harvey said that the physical stress of fighting fire for one hour is comparable to eight hours of labor.  

Chief Harvey also applauded the Move-Over Law in our State. He said that a few months ago, Officer Pinion and he were working a car fire on the interstate and a driver did not stop at the roadblock. The first responders had to jump out of harms way, into the grass on the side of the interstate. The driver did not see the roadblock due to falling asleep at the wheel. Chief Harvey said that distracted driving is an increasing problem on the roadways. 

Imagine if there were no firefighters to put out fires. Or no EMTs to rush the injured to the hospital. Without the security these officials bring, the framework of our lives would probably look very different. 

The Springville Walmart and other local businesses have recently shown a lot of support for our police force this month. While no one likes getting a speeding ticket or being stopped to show their proof of insurance, these are necessary aspects of public safety.

So, remember the Move-Over Law, because it’s there for a purpose and if we abide by it, we can all create a safer environment for everyone.