A 20-year-old Private First Class assigned to Fort Benning, Georgia, died in a PMV-4 mishap 30 October 2021 on the installation at approximately 0521 local. The Soldier was driving with another Soldier riding as a passenger when he lost control of the vehicle, causing it to overturn multiple times before coming to rest on its roof. The Soldiers were discovered by a hunter who called 911. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger, who suffered non-fatal injuries, was transported to the local hospital for further evaluation and treatment. It is unknown exactly what time the mishap occurred. Speed and alcohol were reported as contributing factors to the mishap, and the Soldiers were wearing their seat belts. The safety/unit points of contact are waiting for the results of the local investigation.

Since 2017, the Army has lost an average of 36 Soldiers a year to off-duty PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap was the third PMV-4 fatality of FY22.

How to be a better passenger

Share the responsibilities

Making yourself useful – whether you offer to operate the navigation or act as another set of eyes for the driver – can help avoid any accidents that would have happened due to distraction or driver fatigue. Keeping watch for any diversions and reading road signs will also help the driver to focus on the task at hand.

Banish backseat driving

Keeping a watchful eye for things the driver might miss is helpful; criticizing every move the driver makes could be harmful. If the driver gets frustrated or annoyed, the likelihood is they’ll pay less attention to the road, which could lead to an easily avoidable accident.

Speeding is more than just breaking the law

The consequences are far-ranging:
• Greater potential for loss of vehicle control;
• Reduced effectiveness of occupant protection equipment;
• Increased stopping distance after the driver perceives a danger;
• Increased degree of crash severity, leading to more severe injuries;
• Economic implications of a speed-related crash; and increased fuel consumption/cost.