A Specialist assigned to the Nevada Army National Guard died in a PMV-4 mishap 14 December 2020 in Reno, Nevada, at 0735 local. The Soldier was on active duty, attending a five-day training course. While en route to the first day of training, his vehicle was involved in a mishap with a school bus. The Soldier was pronounced dead at the scene by the local police. He was reportedly wearing his seat belt. Specific circumstances are unknown at this time; however, there were reports of black ice conditions at the time of the mishap. The Reno Police Department and Nevada Army National Guard State Safety Office are conducting an ongoing investigation.
Since 2016, the Army has lost an average of 33 Soldiers a year to PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap is the ninth PMV-4 fatality of FY21.
Stay Alert – Avoid Distractions
Distractions are everywhere today and becoming more and more difficult to avoid. Remember that your eyes and ears are your best tools for keeping safe. Stay alert and watch out.
-Avoid distractions while operating a vehicle. Your focus should be on the task of driving safely.
-Pay attention to your surroundings, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area you’re driving in.
-Focus as far to your front as possible using peripheral vision to scan for obstacles.
-Maintain the posted speed limit.
-Always wear your seat belt and ensure your passengers do the same.
-Put down your phone. Smartphones and handheld electronic devices are a daily part of life, but they take your eyes off of the road and distract your attention.