In a distressing incident that unfolded in the twilight hours of Friday evening, a Chemung County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle was struck by a tractor trailer carrying milk on Interstate 86 near Big Flats. The collision occurred while deputies were investigating another single-vehicle crash. Despite the severity of the impact, injuries were minimal, but the event underscores the importance of adhering to traffic safety laws.

Detailed Incident Report

On a dusky Friday evening, shortly after 7 p.m., law enforcement officers from the Chemung County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to Interstate 86 near the Steuben County line. Their mission was to investigate a one-car accident in the eastbound lane. The lone occupant of the involved vehicle sustained a head injury and was promptly transported to Corning Hospital for treatment before being discharged.

Due to challenging visibility conditions and the precarious location of the initial crash, additional deputies arrived to secure the scene. One deputy parked her patrol car partially on the highway shoulder with hazard lights activated to guide approaching vehicles into the passing lane. As she prepared to exit her vehicle, a tractor trailer hauling milk failed to yield and collided with the rear of the patrol car. This forceful impact sent the patrol vehicle off the south shoulder and down an embankment, resulting in extensive damage. The front of the tractor trailer also suffered significant damage.

The deputy involved in this secondary collision received minor injuries and was treated at Corning Hospital before being released. Thankfully, the tractor trailer driver emerged unscathed. New York State Police conducted a thorough investigation and issued citations to the tractor trailer driver for failing to yield to an emergency vehicle, among other violations.

Emergency services, including Erway Ambulance, DEC, and fire departments from Corning, Elmira, Big Flats, Tompkins Corners, and Golden Glow, responded swiftly to assist at the scene.

Sheriff Bill Schrom emphasized the critical need for all drivers to observe the Move Over Law and respect emergency vehicles operating on highways.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers faced by first responders and the vital importance of road safety. It highlights the necessity for all drivers to remain vigilant and follow traffic regulations meticulously, ensuring the safety of everyone on the road.