Three Taylor firefighters suffered minor injuries after a driver crashed into the fire rig as they were working on another accident scene.
The accident happened Friday evening on westbound 1-94 at Pelham.
Lt. Chad Cousino told 7 Action News a drunk driver plowed into the back of the fire engine at a high rate of speed, injuring the fire fighters and causing extensive damage to the fire rig.
It’s unknown if the rig will be able to be repaired. The cost for a new fire engine can cost up to $500,000. However, officials say the cost will be covered by insurance and the deductible has been waived because the accident wasn't the fire department's fault.
Taylor police continue to investigate the accident.
Distracted drivers are putting first responders lives in danger by failing to obey Michigan’s Emergency Vehicle Caution law, known as the “move over law”.
The law requires drivers to move over for emergency vehicles with their lights activated or slow down and pass with caution if the driver can not change lanes.
A driver failing to obey the law, and causing injury to a first responder faces a $7,500 fine and up to 15 years in prison.