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Roadside Patrols Face Growing Dangers in France

Incidents on the Rise

In recent years, roadside patrol officers in France have faced an alarming increase in incidents involving their vehicles being struck while parked on motorways. Since the beginning of 2023, approximately 20 patrol cars have been hit, sparking concerns about the safety of these essential workers.

A Significant Problem

According to data from Vinci Autoroutes, a major motorway operator in France, 27 patrol vehicles have been involved in accidents on the company's network so far this year. This represents a significant increase compared to previous years, highlighting the growing severity of the issue.

Causes of the Increase

The reasons behind the rise in incidents are complex, but several contributing factors have been identified:

• Increased traffic volume: As the number of vehicles on French motorways has grown, so too has the risk of accidents involving parked patrol cars.
• Distracted driving: The use of mobile phones and other electronic devices while driving has been linked to an increase in accidents, including those involving parked emergency vehicles.
• Insufficient signage: In some cases, the warning signs and lights used to alert drivers to the presence of parked patrol cars may be inadequate or not visible from a sufficient distance.

Consequences for Roadside Patrols

The incidents have had a significant impact on roadside patrols in France:

• Injuries and fatalities: In some cases, patrol officers have been injured or even killed as a result of being hit by passing vehicles.
• Property damage: The patrol cars themselves are often damaged or destroyed in these incidents, costing valuable resources.
• Reduced effectiveness: When patrol cars are damaged or unavailable due to accidents, it can affect the ability of roadside patrols to respond to incidents and assist motorists in need.

Efforts to Improve Safety

Recognizing the severity of the issue, authorities and motorway operators are taking steps to improve the safety of roadside patrols in France:

• Increased signage: Efforts are underway to improve the visibility of warning signs and lights around parked patrol cars.
• Public awareness campaigns: Campaigns are being launched to educate drivers about the dangers of hitting parked emergency vehicles and the importance of paying attention while driving.
• Technological solutions: Some motorway operators are exploring the use of technology, such as sensors and cameras, to detect approaching vehicles and alert patrol officers to potential hazards.

By addressing the underlying causes of the incidents and implementing effective safety measures, it is hoped that the number of accidents involving parked patrol cars in France can be significantly reduced, ensuring the well-being of these essential workers and improving the safety of all road users.