Traffic reporter Paul Johnson dies at 75

Longtime Los Angeles traffic reporter Paul Johnson, who worked at NBC4 television for 22 years and was known for his signature phrase "Buckle up, be careful out there," has died. He was 75.

The "Today in L.A." morning show reporter died Tuesday at home surrounded by family, said his wife, Nancy. Johnson had been battling a brain tumor and had not worked since surgery in January.

In his soothing baritone, Johnson delivered reports on traffic snarls, and the popular reporter always finished with "buckle up, be careful out there." He worked for Burbank's NBC4 since August 1988 as both a weather and traffic reporter.

Johnson's broadcast career included positions at Los Angeles radio stations KZLA, KFAC, KUTE and KIIS.

-- Associated Press

Photo: Paul Johnson. Credit: NBC4-TV / Associated Press

Comments

[Katherine]

Thank you for your work, Mr. Johnson. Condolences to your family. Rest in peace.

[jtbwriter]

My thoughts and prayers to Paul Johnson's family and large number of friends-he was a trailblazer in the field of broadcasting traffic info in a clear and knowledgeable manner as well as a real professional. His warm voice made you feel like he really cared that you would "buckle up out there"-and I will miss his presence on the air.

[Los Angeles Native]

As one might guess, we take our traffic very seriously here in Los Angeles. Mr Johnson's great work is familiar to most anyone that has traversed the southland. Indeed, for some 40 plus years he professionally and adeptly delivered us the traffic and weather with that wonderful baritone voice of his. We shall all miss him. Well done and thank you Mr. Johnson.

[SmartAssProducts.com]

RIP Paul. You kept me feeling grounded when I lived in another state but watched KNBC via DirecTV, and I watched "Today in LA" every morning. I had brain surgery to remove a tumor last year, and it was--and still is--the most difficult, frightening thing I've ever experienced. My heart goes out to Paul's family...I'm so sorry that the outcome of his brain tumor and surgery wasn't good, like mine.

[Randy Skretvedt]

I'll miss Paul Johnson. He had a soothing presence, a wonderfully resonant voice, and the perfect "I'll get you through this" attitude for a traffic reporter in Los Angeles. He performed the minor miracle of making traffic jams almost enjoyable. Thank you and God bless you, Paul.

[Patty]

Paul Johnson was one of my favorite newspeople ever. Seeing him would always cheer me up and I will really miss him. He
was the greatest.

[Grandpa]

Mr. Johnson was always a reassuring voice in the morning, regardless of any traffic calamity. LA will miss him.

[tnhll]

He was a classy, professional presence on television.