Ontario Provincial Police is conducting its annual Move Over campaign this Civic long weekend, one of the busiest weekends of the year on roads and highways.
Under the Highway Traffic Act, drivers are required to slow down and proceed with caution when approaching an emergency vehicle or tow truck stopped or parked on the side of the road and, if safe to do so, move over one lane.
Constable Steven Duguay says when a first responder is on the side of the road, their attention is not always on the traffic but on the investigation in front of them.
"By allowing them to have the space to conduct their investigation, or to remove a vehicle that's broken down or has to be removed off the roadway, it provides space to keep our members and first responders safe on the highway," he says.
Despite the law being enacted almost 20 years ago, the OPP laid close to 900 charges in 2021 against motorists who showed a complete disregard for the safety of emergency personnel and tow truck drivers, and the cushion of space they need to safely carry out their jobs.
Duguay says if you see a tow truck or a first responder on the side of the road, you need to move over.
"If you're passing a first responder on the side of the road and you can't move over and change lanes, we ask that you slow down. Slow your speed and keep everyone safe on the road," he adds.
Drivers are reminded that the law carries a $490 to $2,000 fine plus three demerit points upon conviction. Subsequent offences carry a $1,000 to $4,000 fine, possible jail time of up to six months and suspension of your driver's licence for up to two years.