WSP Trooper escapes injury when patrol car side-swiped by semi

MOSES LAKE, Wash.-- A Washington State Trooper was side swiped by a semi truck at the scene of a crash in Adams County Friday night.

Trooper Jason Aebisher was in his patrol vehicle at the time.

“A semi came through and side swiped his vehicle, pretty violently,” said Trooper John Bryant. “Fortunately, Trooper Aebisher was not injured. He was in his vehicle and smart enough while doing his paperwork or waiting on tow, to buckle in.”

The left car of the patrol car took all of the damage. According to Trooper Bryant, the semi stopped briefly then continued on and was never located. If the driver is found, they could face criminal charges for Hit and Run and Reckless Endangerment.

Bryant says the incident shows the importance of the Move Over law.

“As you’re approaching these emergency zones, you need to do one of two things. If the highway allows you to and it’s safe to do so, move over to the left lane. Also slow down as well,” said Trooper Bryant. “Maybe you’ve got another vehicle in another lane or maybe you're on a two lane highway, reduce your speed.”

Anyone with information about the truck involved is encouraged to contact the Moses Lake office of the Washington State Patrol at 509-765-6171.