Police officers face many challenges on the job. However, one that many people don’t consider is the dangers that come from traffic stops. Sometimes, this comes from the people they are pulling over. Still, there are other reasons why this situation can be tense. Sadly, many officers fear being struck by cars. It happens more than people think, and one sergeant recently recalled his life-changing experience of being hit by a vehicle during a traffic stop. 

Conducting a traffic stop can be dangerous for police officers for several reasons

Traffic stops are one of the most significant methods for keeping people on the road safe. Often, police officers conduct them after observing erratic driving. However, they can happen for all sorts of reasons. Now, according to WRIC, Sergeant Steven Sclafani from Virginia is recalling when a car struck him during a traffic stop. Sadly, this wasn’t your run-of-the-mill collision. He sustained injuries and recently said, “I’m more scared to be hit by a car than to be shot at.”

This traffic stop occurred on November 9, 2009. Sergeant Steven Sclafani was working the night shift and was in the process of writing a ticket. Sadly, an approaching car failed to slow down and move over, causing the tragic collision. Specifically, this happened in Goochland County. 

According to the sergeant, “They had to use the jaws of life to get me out of the vehicle while being unconscious. I had minor injuries, but the trauma from being involved in a situation like that is kind of everlasting, and, you know, I wake up every day, and I kind of feel it in my body.”

It’s because of situations like this that it’s important for drivers to slow down and move over when they see officers at a traffic stop. Specifically, drivers should do this when they notice flashing red and blue lights after ensuring the other lane is open from other cars. Of course, it’s the law in Virginia to do this, but Sergeant Steven Sclafani admits it’s challenging to enforce. However, this infraction could come with a $2,000 fine and up to a year in jail. It’s a class one misdemeanor. 

Notably, October 19th is National Move Over Day. About the day, Sergeant Sclafani says, “It’s definitely a good thing to have this day to remind drivers that we’re out here to help them, and we want to go home safe at night. And our families care about us, too.”