Law enforcement emphasizes Scott's Law after Ceresco tragedy

BEATRICE, NEB. - Law enforcement around the country conduct high numbers of traffic stops every single day, but each time brings a risk into play, making Scott's Law crucial. 

“I started to get out of my vehicle, my computer dinged, so I went back in and closed the door. About two seconds later, I got side-swiped by a big delivery truck who just kept going,” Sgt. Tim Hanson said.

Gage County Sheriff’s Sargent Tim Hanson has had his own close calls while conducting traffic stops. The issue is on responder’s minds, as Officer Ross Bartlett of Ceresco tragically died during a routine traffic stop on Friday. It happened on Highway 77, about 20 miles north of Lincoln. 

These type of instances are a good reminder of the use of Scott’s Law, which requires motorists to change lanes when possible, or to at least move over and slow down when encountering emergency personnel on the road ways.

Chief Deputy Doug Klaus reminds the public to avoid distracted driving.

“I think it gives importance to the fact that the public needs to pay attention so we can avoid tragedies like the one that happened recently.”

And if YOU'RE the one being pulled over, there are also considerations.

“Pull over into a safe area, where you’re off the roadway, come to a slow stop and the deputy will position the vehicle to a position where it can provide a cushion of safety to both the motorist and the acting law enforcement officer.” Klaus said. 

As the community mourns the loss of an officer, Hanson asks that drivers are as careful as ever--whether it's on the highway or city roads.

“It’s not worth it to speed past the scene of an accident,” Hanson said. “High likelihood someones going to get hurt.”