Ali Condon
A police officer in Fairfax, Virginia, narrowly escaped a deadly fate during a routine traffic stop this week, when a vehicle spun out of control.
Thankfully, the cop just about managed to avoid being struck by the BMW hurtling toward him at high-speed - but it was a very close call.
In dash cam footage, shared by Fairfax County Police Department, an unnamed cop can be seen performing a routine traffic stop with a gray 2012 BMW 750 Series.
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All seems in order until, on the left-hand side of the screen, a black BMW M3 can be seen driving in their direction.
While attempting to turn the corner on Fairfax County Parkway, the driver of the black MBW loses control and, in a matter of seconds, the car is spinning across the road and toward the officer and the parked vehicle.
It's only a few moments before the crash that the officer notices the car flying in his direction, so he tries his best to get away.
Although he seems a little unsure of how best to avoid the danger, the cop just about managed to get his footing right, with the oncoming car just barely brushing him.
The car does, however, crash right into the parked car that the cop had pulled over, which slams into the highway barrier.
Although the cop does fall to the ground after the crash, he quickly climbs back to his feet and calls for backup.
"9-11 Bravo," he says into his radio.
"Accident right here at County Parkway, south after Braddock. My cruiser was hit. Driver was hit. I'm trying to check on injuries."
The lone officer then checks in on the driver of the parked car while smoke fills the air.
A press release from the Fairfax County Police Department confirmed that the driver of the out-of-control car was a 17-year-old, who has since been charged with reckless driving.
They also confirmed that both the officer, the teen driver, and the two passengers in his car sustained minor injuries, while the driver of the parked BMW 750 Series has been taken to hospital with injuries that are 'not considered to be life threatening'.
The statement added: "The Fairfax County Police Department is relieved that this crash did not result in a tragedy. This is an important reminder that life can change in an instant.
"It is the driver’s responsibility to drive safely and arrive safely.
"Parents and guardians should consider using this video as an opportunity to have a conversation with their teen drivers about how their driving behavior can affect the lives of others."