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Dallas, TX (March 5, 2026) – Two police officers were injured early on Thursday morning after a vehicle crashed into their patrol car while they were assisting at the scene of a prior accident in Dallas.
According to the Dallas Police Department, the secondary collision occurred at approximately 2:30 a.m. on Interstate 35E near Continental Avenue in the Western Heights area.
Authorities reported that the officers were seated inside their marked patrol vehicle with emergency lights activated. The cruiser had been positioned in the northbound lanes to block traffic and protect the scene of an earlier crash investigation.
Investigators say another vehicle traveling along the interstate failed to slow down or move over and struck the rear of the stationary police cruiser at a high rate of speed.
Both officers sustained injuries in the impact and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials said their injuries were non-life-threatening and that both officers were reported to be in stable condition.
The driver of the vehicle that collided with the patrol car was also taken to a hospital for medical evaluation.
The crash prompted authorities to close the northbound lanes of Interstate 35E for several hours while investigators documented the scene and crews cleared the damaged vehicles. During the closure, traffic was diverted to the lower deck of the interstate, causing delays for early morning commuters.
Officials with the Dallas Police Department are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Authorities indicated that investigators are examining whether excessive speed or driver impairment may have contributed to the collision.
We extend our thoughts to the injured officers and others involved in this crash and wish them a full and speedy recovery.
Why Are “Move Over” Laws Critical for Protecting Emergency Responders?
Secondary crashes involving police officers, firefighters, and roadside workers remain a significant safety concern across the United States. Many of these collisions occur when drivers fail to reduce speed or change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles stopped along roadways.
“Move Over” laws require drivers to shift to an adjacent lane—when possible—or significantly slow down when approaching emergency vehicles with flashing lights. These laws are designed to create a protective buffer zone for first responders working on the roadside.
Despite these regulations, incidents still occur when drivers become distracted, misjudge stopping distances, or continue traveling at highway speeds near active crash scenes. Stationary patrol vehicles, even with emergency lights activated, can be difficult for inattentive drivers to react to quickly at high speeds.
In secondary crash investigations, authorities typically review several factors, including driver speed, braking patterns, road conditions, visibility, and whether the driver complied with move-over requirements. Crash reconstruction specialists may also analyze vehicle data and roadway evidence to determine how the collision unfolded.
These incidents highlight the importance of maintaining heightened awareness near emergency scenes. Slowing down and changing lanes when approaching flashing lights can help protect law enforcement officers, emergency personnel, and motorists already involved in roadside incidents.
