EAST HARTFORD, CT— A Connecticut State Trooper was injured late Monday night after their cruiser was struck by a passing vehicle while assisting at a crash scene on I-84 eastbound near exit 56, according to State Police.
At approximately 11:30 p.m. on March 31, the Trooper from Troop H-Hartford was parked behind a disabled vehicle obstructing the right travel lane, with emergency lights activated, awaiting a tow.
As the wrecker worked on recovery, a passing vehicle failed to slow or move over and collided with the cruiser, injuring the Trooper seated inside.
“The Trooper sustained minor injuries from the accident, was transported to an area hospital, and is expected to make a full recovery,” officials confirmed.
An on-scene investigation determined that the operator of the striking vehicle was not under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time. Authorities issued the driver an infraction for violation of C.G.S. 14-283b(b)(1): Failure to Slow Down/Move Over for a Stationary Emergency Vehicle.
Both vehicles were ultimately driven away from the scene. No additional injuries were reported.
The “Move Over” law requires motorists to slow down and shift lanes when approaching emergency or maintenance vehicles stopped on the side of the road with flashing lights.
Violations remain a persistent safety concern for law enforcement and roadside workers across Connecticut.
