By Michael Butler

A Tallassee police officer has been hospitalized after his car hydroplaned on Highway 14 Thursday evening. First responders were called at 6:03 p.m.

“It started raining and a vehicle swerved over into his lane,” said Tallassee Police Chief Todd Buce. “He tried to avoid a head-on collision and got off the roadway somewhat and rolled the vehicle.

“All of our officers receive hours of defensive driving. Luckily enough, he was wearing his seatbelt. The air bags deployed. It could have been a lot worse.”

The officer was transferred from Community Hospital by Haynes Life Flight to Baptist South in Montgomery.

“He is doing much better. All the prognoses look really well. We’re glad he’s improving.”

Buce emphasized the importance of adapting to changing weather conditions when behind the wheel.

“Slow down. Make sure you have your lights on when your windshield wipers are going. Take all the safety precautions you can take.”