OHP Reminds Drivers To Move Over After Semi-Truck Hits Trooper’s Car

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol reminded drivers to move over after a semi-truck hit a highway trooper's vehicle Thursday when the roads were less than ideal.   

“A lot of crashes at one time on the Turner Turnpike,” Trooper Eric Foster with the Oklahoma Highway Patrol said.  

That’s why Foster said the posted speed does not apply to winter weather. 

“Just because the speed limit sign on the turnpike says 80 miles an hour, that is only for pristine conditions,” Foster said.  

AAA Oklahoma reported more than 900 calls for roadside rescues Thursday. 

AAA said motorists are likely to be overconfident in their vehicle’s ability to run in these conditions.  

Foster said the problem is that people drive too fast to stop at a moment’s notice. One semi-truck driver on the Turner Turnpike found out the hard way.   

“[The driver] started to get over, but there wasn’t enough time,” Foster said. 

Lt. Mystal Perkins was pulled over helping direct traffic at another crash when a semi-truck driver side-swiped her car.   

“She’s there to protect that trooper on the other side of the hill,” Foster said. “We’re grateful that semi didn’t catch her pretty square.”  

Lt. Perkins is okay, she returned to work moments later, but this damage sends a message to drivers on the road.  

Foster said drivers need to slow down and move over when they see flashing lights. Not only is it for driver safety, but it’s also Oklahoma law.  

When the weather turns harsh AAA urges drivers to stay home unless it is critical. 

In the case of the patrol car, this time, a lesson was taught when the damage can be replaced. 

“We’re just grateful that everybody was okay,” Foster said.