Trooper’s Patrol Vehicle Struck During Traffic Stop on AZ-202: Officials Urge Drivers to “Move Over”

iSkyNews and Media August 25, 2025

Photo Courtesy of AZDPS

Staff Reporter | iSkyNews.com (ISC News)

Published August 25th, 2025

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LAVEEN, AZ — A Highway Patrol State Trooper narrowly escaped injury after a two-vehicle collision on AZ-202 near W Baseline Road in Laveen. The incident occurred at approximately 10:47 AM on August 22, when the Trooper initiated a routine traffic stop on the right shoulder of the highway.

Moments later, a large commercial vehicle traveling in the right lane failed to move over and struck the patrol SUV, violently ripping open the driver’s side door. Emergency lights were activated at the time of the collision. Fortunately, the Trooper was outside the vehicle and was not injured. The commercial driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators.

The Arizona Department of Public Safety is using this incident to remind drivers of the state’s Move Over Law—ARS §28-775(E)(1)—which requires motorists to shift one lane away from any vehicle displaying flashing lights. If moving over isn’t possible, drivers must slow down significantly to ensure safety.

“This wasn’t just a close call—it was a reminder that flashing lights mean lives are at risk,” said a DPS spokesperson. “Whether it’s a Trooper, firefighter, EMT, or road crew, they deserve space to do their jobs safely.”

Images from the scene show the damaged patrol vehicle with its emergency lights still flashing, traffic cones surrounding the area, and law enforcement coordinating the investigation. The collision occurred in broad daylight under clear skies, reinforcing the need for driver vigilance regardless of weather conditions.

iSkyNews urges all Arizona drivers to respect the Move Over Law—not just to avoid fines, but to protect those who serve on the front lines of public safety.

🛑 Lights and “wee-woo, wee-woo” mean MOVE OVER. Lives depend on it.