What is the purpose of a blocking vehicle at the Incident Space?

The purpose of a blocking vehicle at the Incident Space is primarily to protect workers from errant vehicles. When an incident occurs on a roadway, safety is a critical concern for first responders and other personnel on the scene. A blocking vehicle is positioned strategically to create a physical barrier between oncoming traffic and those who are working at the scene. This helps to minimize the risk of injury from vehicles that may stray from their lanes due to distraction, impaired driving, or other factors. By using a blocking vehicle, the safety of responders is significantly enhanced, allowing them to focus on managing the incident without the immediate threat of being struck by a moving vehicle.

In this context, while a blocking vehicle can also indirectly influence traffic speed and may contribute to the overall management of the incident space, its primary function is centered around worker protection. Therefore, understanding this role underscores the importance of implementing effective traffic incident management practices to safeguard responders and maintain safe operational environments.