A Private First Class assigned to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, died in a government motor vehicle (GMV) mishap 4 October 2021 at 1300 local. Five Soldiers were returning from land navigation training in an up-armored HMMWV when the vehicle abruptly turned and rolled over on a four lane hard surface road. During the rollover, the truck commander, two passengers, and the gunner were ejected. The Fort Bragg emergency medical service transported the Soldiers to a local medical center for evaluation and further treatment. The emergency room physician pronounced the gunner deceased at 1401.
Since 2016, the Army has experienced an average of 12 GMV mishaps per year. This mishap is the first GMV fatality of FY22 and below the number of similar mishaps during the same time period last year.
Per AR 385-10 Chapter 11
11–4. Safe motor vehicle operations
a. Occupant protection (HSPG Number 20)
(1) Occupant protective devices will be worn by all persons in or on an Army-owned motor vehicle whether on or off the installation.
Tips:
Stay Alert – Avoid Distractions
Distractions are everywhere today and becoming more and more difficult to avoid. Remember that, as a driver, your primary task is to operate your vehicle safely. It only takes a few seconds to get yourself and your passengers in a situation that could start a chain reaction that leads to a motor vehicle mishap. Always keep these tips in mind when driving or as a passenger.
1. Avoid distractions while operating a vehicle.
2. Always wear your seat belt and ensure your passengers do the same.
3. Your focus should be on the task of driving safely.
4. Pay attention to your surroundings, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area where you’re driving.
5. Focus as far to your front as possible using peripheral vision to scan for obstacles.
6. Maintain the posted speed limit.