A traffic cop evaded an out-of-control BMW that smashed a pulled-over car in Virginia.

The officer jumped for his life when the vehicle skidded across a highway at 120mph heading straight for him as he was talking to a pulled-over driver.

When he saw the car coming, the unnamed officer leapt out of the way at the last second.

The cop's dashcam footage shows how the BMW skidded backwards and began to spin before bouncing off the car he had been standing beside.

Then it carried on and clipped his right knee, finally smashing into his cruiser.

But despite the shock and agony, he managed to keep his cool, check on the other car's driver and radio in an emergency call for help following the incident in Fairfax County on Monday, May 1.

The BMW's 17-year-old driver - now facing reckless driving charges - and his two passengers reportedly sustained minor injuries in the crash.

The officer and the other driver reportedly both needed hospital treatment.

Fairfax County Police Department said in a statement: '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 behaviour can affect the lives of others.'