Grandville, MI (February 13, 2025) – Police are reminding drivers to remain cautious around emergency vehicles after a Grandville Fire Department engine was struck while responding to a separate crash on Wednesday night.
The incident occurred around 8 p.m. on eastbound I-196 near Chicago Drive. According to Michigan State Police, a box truck slid off the road and landed on its side in a ditch. Emergency responders arrived to assist, with a Grandville fire engine and a traffic blocker positioned to protect the scene.
While first responders were attending to the initial crash, a pickup truck bypassed the traffic blocker and collided with the rear of the fire engine, which was fully lit at the time. The pickup driver was transported to a hospital with minor injuries. Authorities believe speed and alcohol may have played a role in the crash.
Fortunately, no first responders were hurt in the incident. However, the collision caused the fire engine’s fuel tank to rupture, leading to a minor hazardous materials situation that was quickly contained. The fire engine sustained heavy damage, though the full extent is still being assessed.
Michigan law requires drivers to move over for emergency vehicles when possible, and authorities are reinforcing this rule following recent accidents involving first responders.
Our thoughts go out to those impacted by this incident, and we are grateful that no first responders were harmed.
Emergency Vehicle Safety in Michigan
Traffic crashes involving emergency responders continue to be a growing concern in Michigan. When police, fire, and EMS crews are assisting at accident scenes, they rely on drivers to slow down and move over for their safety. Unfortunately, incidents like the one in Grandville highlight the dangers that first responders face while working on active roadways.
Michigan’s Move Over Law mandates that drivers switch lanes or slow down when approaching emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or road maintenance crews with flashing lights. Failing to do so can result in fines and increased risk of accidents.
Similar incidents have occurred in recent months, including a January crash where a vehicle hit a fire truck from the Comstock Fire Department, and a December accident in which a box truck crashed into three Kalamazoo fire trucks, injuring two firefighters. These cases serve as a stark reminder of the importance of driver awareness and adherence to traffic safety laws.
To reduce these types of crashes, drivers should always remain alert, avoid distractions, and respect emergency zones. If you or someone you know has been affected by a crash involving emergency responders, it is important to seek proper support and legal guidance.
Staying informed and following traffic laws can help prevent accidents and protect those who risk their lives to assist others on Michigan’s roadways.