Tahoe Douglas firefighters urge motorists to watch for collisions

Tahoe Douglas firefighters working a March 5 collision in a snow storm on Highway 50 had to dive out of the way of a speeding car to avoid being struck themselves.

A video of the incident was released by the Tahoe Douglas Fire Protection District on Friday in an effort to alert motorists to exercise caution.

Just one week later, on March 13, a Tahoe Douglas fire engine was struck by a vehicle while positioned at another emergency scene at the Cave Rock tunnel—once again during a snowstorm—highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by emergency responders due to motorists failing to adjust their driving to the current road conditions.

“These incidents serve as critical reminders of the importance of safe driving and remaining attentive at all times,” said district spokeswoman Michelle Turner. “When you see emergency vehicles with lights flashing, slow down, move over, and stay alert. Our firefighters and first responders risk their lives to protect our community, and reckless driving puts them—and everyone else on the road—in serious danger.”

Nevada law requires motorists to change lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles on the roadside. Failure to do so can result in tragic accidents, injuries, or fatalities. Learn more about the “Move Over” law with NDOT at Nevada "Move Over" Law Explained | Nevada Department of Transportation

In light of these incidents, Tahoe Douglas Fire is calling on the public to:

• Always remain attentive while driving, avoiding distractions such as texting or using a phone.
• Obey all traffic laws, including speed limits, traffic lights, and the Move Over law.
• Exercise extra caution in hazardous conditions, such as rain, fog, snow, or icy roads.
• Give emergency responders plenty of space to work safely.
• Be mindful that even if the roadway appears dry, melted snow can run across the road and freeze at night, creating icy conditions—especially in shaded areas that never receive sunlight throughout the day.
• Check road conditions before you head out with NHP at nvroads.com.

“These are simple actions that can save lives. Tahoe Douglas Fire, Douglas County Sheriff, Nevada Highway Patrol and Nevada Department of Transportation ask every driver to take responsibility and help us ensure that no firefighter, paramedic, law enforcement officer, highway worker is injured—or worse—due to reckless behavior,” Turner said.