Roadside emergency workers need drivers' attention: OPP

NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding motorists that being a safe, attentive driver means keeping an eye out for emergency vehicles and tow trucks on the roadside, slowing down and moving over a lane when it is safe to do so.

Not only is it the law, but it's the only way to ensure police and other emergency workers have the safe space they need to work and help people who, for example, are involved in a collision or stranded on the roadside and need assistance.      

During the Civic Day long weekend, the OPP will keep a close watch on drivers approaching emergency vehicles and tow trucks, to ensure motorists are complying with this law. Officers will also keep an eye out for aggressive, inattentive and impaired drivers, as well as drivers and passengers who are not buckled up. These road behaviours remain the leading causes or factors in road fatalities every year.   

Quotes

"Police and other emergency personnel conduct their daily duties on the roadside of Ontario's busiest roads and highways everyday and are put at risk by inattentive and careless drivers who fail to move over when safe to do so. Please comply with the move over law and respect that our dedicated officers and emergency workers deserve to get home to their families safely, as much as every other road user does. Please help us keep everyone safe." -- Deputy Commissioner Rohan Thompson, provincial commander, traffic safety and operational support

"We all have a role to play in keeping our roads safe. This long weekend, keep your eyes on the road, make sure you wear your seat belt, obey the posted speed limits and have a designated driver or take public transit." -- Michael Kerzner, Ontario Solicitor General

"Aggressive and careless drivers, who threaten the lives of others and our first responders, have no place on our roads. Our government will continue to crack down on dangerous driving to keep Ontario's highways among the safest in North America and ensure families can enjoy the long weekend."  -- Prabmeet Sarkaria, Ontario Minister of Transportation                                                    

Quick facts

• The OPP laid 1,282 charges in 2023 against drivers who failed to comply with Ontario's Move Over law.
• Non-compliance with Ontario's Move Over law carries a $490 to $2,000 fine plus three demerit points upon conviction. Subsequent offences carry a fine between $1,000 and $4,000, possible jail time of up to six months and suspension of your driver's licence for up to two years.

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