Headlights may shine brighter, but roads remain perilous for on-foot police officers and other pedestrians. Too often, officers directing traffic or working at night find themselves all but invisible to passing drivers—so much so that being struck outside their vehicles ranks as the second leading traffic-related cause of officer fatalities. A significant number of deaths involve officers hit while outside their cars, a stark reminder that current safety measures fall short.

A tragic incident, where an officer wearing a standard neon green reflective vest and carrying a flashlight was fatally struck at a late-night crash scene, sparked a critical question: Could better protection exist? That moment led to a simple yet impactful innovation.

Experimenting with duct tape and wire ties in a basement, an officer modified a standard vest by adding bright LED lights below the garment, creating a strong, unmissable glow for oncoming traffic. Unlike conventional light-up vests, this design used stronger lights and strategic placement to ensure visibility—no false sense of security, just real, reliable presence.

After testing the prototype, the idea gained traction. Over years, many departments began adopting the vests, recognizing their potential to save lives. Crafted with help from family, the modified vests proved that even small upgrades to reflective gear could redefine safety for those working dangerously close to traffic.

In the end, it's not just about brighter headlights—it's about ensuring those on foot, especially those protecting others, are seen clearly enough to come home safe.