VIDEO: Semi slams into ‘Blocker’ protecting first responders while passing another truck

Authorities in Smith County, Texas, have released video of a crash that occurred on I-20 earlier this month as a reminder to drivers to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles.

The video was captured on the morning of April 5th, 2023, as crews responded to a previous crash in the westbound lanes of I-20 at mile marker 568.

As multiple agencies responded to the crash, a “Blocker” equipped with a Traffic Management Attenuator was put into place to protect first responders. The device is designed to absorb impact from vehicles and slow them down.

Around 10:25 a.m. as crews were attempting to remove a crashed vehicle from the tree line, a semi truck attempting to pass a second truck struck the Blocker. The crash ultimately involved the Blocker, a Texas DPS vehicle, and a fire truck.

“The Blocker did exactly what it was intended to. It absorbed the impact of the semi-truck and deflected it in a way that was safer for all involved,” officials said.

You can view the video below.