On just its second call, the new mobile barrier trailer saved the lives of Carrollton Fire Rescue personnel and officers along I-35 this past weekend.
"It certainly did its job. We're thrilled," said Jolene DeVito, public safety information manager.
She said the driver wasn't impaired, but just distracted and apparently driving too fast. The car struck the side of the unit that was parked at an angle.
The unique vehicle was designed to deflect impacts which should prevent injuries to the person in the striking vehicle. And, that's just what happened, DeVito said
The blocking unit has been in service at Carrollton Fire Rescue for two weeks. .
Members of the department helped design the unit after seeing an increase in responders struck while they worked along the highway. The construction was delayed by COVID-19 and parts delivery issues, but DeVito said it's an important part of the fleet.
And, this past weekend that investment paid off.
