Flagman™, an initiative focused on educating the public about safe practices during roadside emergencies, has been honored with the prestigious Peter K. O’Rourke Award. This award recognizes exceptional contributions to highway safety made by various entities, including individuals, organizations, businesses, and government agencies.
The inspiration behind Flagman™ stems from a tragic incident that occurred on April 22nd, 2020. Corey Iodice, while assisting a stranded motorist on a Connecticut roadside as part of his family’s towing business, lost his life after being struck by a driver who failed to adhere to the “Slow Down, Move Over” laws. In response to this devastating event, Flagman™ was established with the mission of raising awareness about these crucial laws and safeguarding the lives of first responders working along roadways.
Cindy Iodice, reflecting on the motivation behind Flagman™, shares, “Failure to slow down or move over is a critical nationwide issue.” Recognizing the urgency of the matter, all states have enacted Slow Down Move Over laws since 2012. The emblem of Flagman™, distinguished by the safety colors orange and black, has become widely recognized as a symbol of road safety.
Receiving the 2023 Peter K. O’Rourke Award holds deep significance for the Iodice family and the Flagman™ team. Cindy Iodice expresses gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a remarkable honor. She emphasizes the importance of Flagman™ in continuing the legacy of safety that Corey left behind. Despite having launched the program in June 2022, Flagman™ has already garnered substantial support within its inaugural year. The overarching goal of the initiative is to prevent secondary accidents that result in harm to first responders.
With a 70-year history in the towing industry, the Iodice family’s strong bond has been pivotal in driving the success of Flagman™. Cindy Iodice takes pride in the unity that emerged even stronger after Corey’s tragic passing, leading to the creation of a positive force for road safety.
