By EMS1 Staff
JEFFERSON COUNTY, Mo. — A paramedic who was involved in a crash while on the scene of another incident recalled his experience.
FOX 2 Now reported that Rock Township Ambulance District Lt. Nick Salzman was on the scene of a highway vehicle crash obtaining information from patients when he says his life flashed before his eyes.
“We were about to get them back to their cars, when we heard some brakes lock up, coming down the interstate,” he said. “We turned and looked. And coming sideways at us, was a vehicle that was coming right at the ambulance.”
Everyone on the scene dove into the side entrance of the ambulance, and Salzman was transported to the hospital after striking his head in the process. He was treated and released, but he said the close call sparked concern over what could have occurred.
“It was a life experience. One I hope not to repeat any time soon,” Salzman said.
RTAD Deputy Chief Andrew West said the vehicle appeared to be going too fast in heavy rainfall, but that drivers also tend to “rubberneck” when they see a crash.
“It’s human nature. You want to look to see what’s going on if you’re passing an accident. You see an ambulance. You see a firetruck, a police officer, or even a tow truck,” West said. “Don’t look. I’m sure you can figure out on social media after the fact what took place, but please, just pay attention.”
Salzman said he’s grateful everything turned out the way it did.
“Lots of people talk about their life flashing before their eyes. And fortunately, I’m a paramedic. I had a very good idea of what was about to happen to me. I could have been severely injured. And – or – worse.”