Law enforcement across our area and beyond are mourning the loss of Cleveland Police Officer David Fahey.
He died Tuesday after he was struck by a vehicle on I-90 West near Warren Road. One former officer we talked with is spending his retirement creating an army of safe drivers.
He has some reminders for us all.
Bob Adamich teaches students through Rocky River’s 911 Driving School, but his heart weighed heavy during Tuesday’s lesson.
“It’s not a good day,” he said.
Retired now, he served with Lakewood Police for 31 years. He remembers what it’s like to work in the danger zone.
“It’s just scary. Especially when you’re out there on the freeway,” Adamich said.
We talked with other officers who’ve had their own close calls including Sgt. Troy Mineard with Akron Police.
“I’ve pulled people over and had people get close enough to me to where I’ve had to grab onto the car door of the car I had to pull over, rather than be pulled out into traffic,” Sgt. Mineard told us.
Adamich usually teaches basics, but he says even experienced and skilled drivers need reminded about the importance of taking precautions for emergency and other vehicles on the side of the highway.
“By all means, you’ve got to slow down. You see the flashing lights, slow down,” said Adamich.
Slow down and move over. It’s the law. Ohio’s Move Over Law imposes a $300 fine on first offenders. Also, stop staring.
“Wherever you’re looking...the car is going to go,” Adamich said.
Remembering these three things can make the difference between life and death.
“We all wanna go home at night."