Virginia State Police troopers recovering after close call on Interstate-81

DUBLIN (WSLS 10) - Two Virginia State Police troopers survived a close call on Interstate-81 in Pulaski County this week.

On Tuesday morning, the two troopers were assisting a semi-truck driver along the side of the road. Officials said they had their emergency lights on but it didn't keep a driver from slamming into one of the cruisers.

State police said the incident stresses the importance of drivers being alert and moving over when they see emergency vehicles on the side of the road.

"I noticed a vehicle approaching in my rear view mirror and it didn't seem to be slowing down or moving over," said Trooper W.L. Stumbo.

Trooper Stumbo's car was parked at an angle along Interstate 81 with the emergency lights activated. Officials said a driver heading north in a pickup truck struck Stumbo's car from behind. Stumbo and another trooper suffered minor injuries.

Authorities said Trooper Stumbo and Trooper R.W. Hughes tried to divert traffic, on Tuesday, after a tractor-trailer broke down. According to state police, Stumbo's vehicle was parked at an angle along Interstate-81 with the emergency lights activated.

Officials said a driver heading north in a pickup truck struck Stumbo's car from behind and forced Trooper Hughes, who was standing in front of the cruiser, to leap over a guardrail.

Officials said the accident caused close to $10,000 in damage. Luckily, the two troopers suffered only minor injuries. State police are reminding drivers to move over when they see flashing emergency lights.

"Anytime you see emergency lights you should be adjusting to make sure it is safe to pass through," explained Sgt. Steve Lowe.

The Move Over law requires drivers to change lanes when they see flashing lights.

"If you see caution lights please slow down and take a couple of extra seconds to pass through those crash scenes or construction zones" said Sgt. Lowe. "Let's make sure all the troopers, tow truck drivers and EMS workers are able to go home safely."

Lowe said the driver involved in Tuesday's accident faces reckless driving charges. Lowe says violating the Move Over law could lead to fines and charges, depending on the situation.