A Specialist and Sergeant First Class assigned to Fort Bliss, Texas, died in a PMV-4 mishap 18 July 2021 in El Paso, Texas, at 0345 local. A Soldier was driving his PMV with one Soldier, believed to be the front-seat passenger, and one Soldier and civilian as back seat passengers, when they were involved in a multi-vehicle mishap. The driver and front-seat passenger were pronounced dead at the scene, requiring dental forensic identification. The Soldier in the backseat was transported to the local medical center for non-fatal injuries. Their medical prognosis is favorable; however, potential for a disability cannot be determined at this time. The civilian passenger was ejected from the vehicle. There is no clear indication of what caused the mishap, which is currently being investigated by the El Paso Police Department (EPPD). The division has initiated a line-of-duty investigation, and subordinate units have executed casualty assistance procedures to notify and assist surviving family members and units/Soldiers affected by the loss. The unit/safety points of contact are waiting for EPPD to release its official report. Alcohol as a contributing factor is unknown at this time, pending the medical examiner’s release of the toxicology report. Seat belt use is undetermined due to a post-crash fire.
Since 2016, the Army has lost an average of 33 Soldiers a year to off-duty PMV-4 mishaps. This mishap was the 34th and 35th PMV-4 fatalities of FY21.
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.
Stay Alert – Avoid Distractions:
Distractions are everywhere today and becoming more and more difficult to avoid. Remember that, as a pedestrian, 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.