MT. JULIET, Tenn. — A driver who was reportedly distracted while reading a prescription caused a crash involving a Mt. Juliet patrol vehicle Monday evening along Interstate 40 West near mile marker 225. Fortunately, no officers were injured in the incident.
The Mt. Juliet Police Department said the officer was assisting with a traffic stop at the time of the crash, positioning two patrol vehicles well off the roadway on the right shoulder with emergency lights activated. The officer’s vehicle was unoccupied when the collision occurred.
According to police, the driver, who had entered the highway from the Mt. Juliet Road on-ramp, drove along the shoulder for nearly a quarter of a mile. The vehicle traveled over rumble strips and uneven pavement before striking the right rear side of the patrol car. Authorities confirmed that no officers were inside the vehicle during the impact.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol cited the driver for failure to exercise due care and for operating the vehicle without insurance. The driver admitted to being distracted by reading a prescription at the time of the crash.
“We are truly grateful that both officers are unharmed,” said the Mt. Juliet Police Department in a social media post about the incident. “This incident is another reminder of the risks our officers face every day and the importance of staying alert behind the wheel and keeping your eyes on the road.”
The crash serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by distractions behind the wheel, especially in areas where emergency vehicles are stationed. While the outcome of this particular incident was fortunate, authorities continue to urge drivers to maintain full attention when on the road to help ensure the safety of everyone.
