Rippon Family Advocates for Safer Roads After Flagging Tragedy
Family of fallen flagger hopes laws will change to protect road workers
WV Metro News | Sunday, March 9, 2025
The family of Kathy Ruth, a flagger tragically killed in Rippon on April 4, 2024, is advocating for stronger road worker protection laws following a mild conviction for the driver responsible. Her daughter, Chrissy Hall, and other family members are engaging with lawmakers to push for changes like House Bill 2097, which would elevate vehicular manslaughter from a misdemeanor to a felony. In addition to their activism, they've initiated the 'Stop For Beanie' non-profit to fund safety measures, such as rumble strips, aiming to raise awareness for road safety in the community and honor Ruth's memory, emphasizing the vital role road workers play in safety along local highways.
