A Specialist assigned to Fort Drum, New York, died in a PMV-4 mishap 3 January 2021 in Ceres Township, Pennsylvania, at 0145 local. The Soldier was a passenger in a vehicle that crashed when the driver took a left-hand curve at a high rate of speed and struck a concrete barrier, ejecting the Soldier. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. The Soldier was reportedly not wearing a seat belt during the mishap. The mishap is under investigation.
Since 2016, the Army has lost an average of 33 Soldiers a year to PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap is the 13th PMV-4 fatality of FY21
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.
How to be a better passenger
Share the responsibilities:
Making yourself useful – whether you offer to operate the navigation system or act as another set of eyes for the driver – you 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. If you feel the driver is doing something unsafe, say something. As a passenger, you’re letting the driver gamble with your life and the lives of your family and friends. Be a better passenger and protect your life and the life of the driver.