The City of St. George is taking a major step forward in providing services to the public through a new partnership with On Scene Services (OSS), a national leader in civilian traffic response. With approximately 7,000 traffic accidents occurring annually in the city—most of which result in no injuries—the recently approved initiative is designed to streamline accident response procedures and enhance overall public safety outcomes.
“Nearly 7,000 accidents a year puts a huge strain on both the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office and State Police,” said Mayor Dustin Yates. “By partnering with OSS, the City is taking responsibility for these incidents and allowing these law enforcement partners to focus resources on more pressing public safety issues.”
The St. George City Council unanimously approved the contract at its most recent meeting. The approval of this contract and the provision of these City services is a milestone in local autonomy for St. George and part of a long-term strategic partnership with the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office and Louisiana State Police.
Here’s What Happens After a Collision
Starting this fall, when a non-injury or minor-injury accident is reported through 911 or the non-emergency line, OSS civilian responders—not police officers—will be dispatched to the scene, unless there are non-minor injuries, signs of impairment, or criminal activity.
OSS responders will:
- Quickly secure and manage the scene to prevent further risk
- Document the incident with accurate details, axon body cameras, and photographs
- Assist all parties with the safe exchange of driver and insurance information
- Provide standardized, printed or digital reports for insurance and legal use
- Remain calm, professional, and helpful throughout the process
Responders are unarmed, clearly identified in uniform and marked vehicles, and trained in trauma-informed customer service and de-escalation techniques.
“In addition to being good partners with other law enforcement agencies, our goal is to reduce wait times, limit stress, and give our residents a better experience with these minor accidents,” said Mayor Yates.
The OSS program is scheduled to launch in Fall 2025. To learn more about On Scene Services and their nationally recognized model, visit www.oss.city.