First responders in Western North Carolina demonstrated solidarity and a commitment to road safety with a procession of emergency vehicles in Haywood County on Sunday. The event honored a fallen tow truck operator and advocated for safer roads for roadside workers.
Remembering Austin Gayne
The memorial ride on Interstate 40 paid tribute to Austin Gayne, a 24-year-old tow truck operator who died in 2021 after being struck by a vehicle while on the job in Florida. Gayne, a Haywood County native and Haywood Community College graduate, was remembered as someone who would help anyone.
The incident occurred on February 1, 2021, when Gayne was loading a dump truck onto his wrecker. He died 26 days later, on February 26, 2021, from his injuries. Following his death, the nonprofit Austin Strong SDMO Awareness was founded to advocate for roadside worker safety.
"Slow Down, Move Over" Laws
The event also served as a reminder of "Slow Down, Move Over" laws, which are in effect in all 50 states. These laws require drivers to reduce their speed and, if possible, change lanes when approaching roadside workers and emergency vehicles with flashing lights. Organizers emphasized the importance of these laws, noting that first responders are frequently struck and killed while performing their duties.
The procession, organized as an annual memorial ride, started near Beaverdam Road in Canton, with vehicles traveling east on I-40 toward Asheville and back. The flashing lights of the convoy were visible for miles. A billboard near I-40 mile marker 34.5 also honors Gayne.
The ride underscores the strong sense of community among first responders, tow operators, and law enforcement in Western North Carolina. A related Austin Strong Car Show is planned next month in Asheville.
The event highlights the ongoing need for increased awareness and caution on roadways to protect those who serve the community. Community members are urged to pay attention while driving and give roadside workers the space they need to operate safely.