SPOKANE, Wash. — As Washington State Patrol continues to investigate the death of a Spokane County Sheriff Sergeant who was hit and killed on the highway, the agency is reminding everyone of the road rules meant to keep us all safe.
On Saturday, 59-year-old SCSO Sergeant Kenneth Salas died after being struck by a motorcycle while helping move a hay bale off I-90 near Four Lakes.
The Washington State Patrol is investigating the crash.
WSP said state law requires drivers to move over one lane or reduce speed to 10 miles below the posted speed limit when emergency vehicles, construction crews or vehicles providing roadside assistance block a traffic lane.
“That’s why that law was enacted, because we had emergency workers, police officers, paramedics, firefighters, construction workers and tow drivers that have had a series of collisions in those areas where people didn’t move over,” said Sergeant Gregory Riddell of the Washington State Patrol.
WSP also wants drivers to know to properly secure their load.
Drivers transporting items in truck beds or on trailers must ensure all materials are tied down and secure before traveling.
Failing to do so can result in a steep fine and put others on the road in danger.
RELATED COVERAGE: State agencies in Washington promote Secure Your Load for Safer Roads campaign
A memorial fund has been established in Salas’ honor, with all donations going toward funeral expenses and supporting the Salas family. The Sheriff’s Office announced that a memorial service is being planned by the Behind the Badge Foundation, the Sheriff’s Office and the Salas family.
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