Slow Down, Move Over
When an emergency vehicle is stopped on the side of the road, slow down, and wherever possible, move over. It's a simple act, but one that can be the difference between life and death.
Protecting Ontario’s tow truck drivers on the road.
Imagine yourself working alongside a busy highway, constantly aware of the whoosh of traffic and the potential danger it poses. This is the everyday reality for our Roadside Heroes who often find themselves in unpredictable situations, working mere feet from speeding traffic without the basic safety of walls and barriers.
That's where you, the driver passing as they work, comes in. You are an active participant in their safety. Behind every flashing light is a person with a family. Taking a few seconds to switch lanes or reduce speed is a small act that shows big respect for those risking their safety to keep our roads safe.
Everyone deserves a safe place to work, and by practicing ‘Slow Down, Move Over’ you're helping to ensure everyone returns home safely at the end of the day.
Why move over?
Moving over when you see emergency or roadside workers isn't just a legal requirement—it’s a vital act of road safety and respect. Here's why it matters:
- It reduces the risk of accidents. When vehicles speed past a stopped tow truck, emergency responder, or road crew, the margin for error is dangerously small. Shifting lanes or slowing down significantly reduces the chance of collisions and protects lives—yours included.
- It gives roadside workers the space they need to do their jobs safely. Tow truck drivers, paramedics, police officers, and road maintenance teams often work just inches from live traffic. By moving over, you're providing a buffer zone that helps ensure they return home safely after every shift.
- It helps traffic flow more smoothly. Slowing down suddenly or swerving last-minute can cause traffic disruptions and secondary accidents. Moving over early and predictably helps maintain a smoother, safer flow of traffic for everyone on the road.
How to pass safely
Flashing lights on the road ahead? Don't be confused. CLICK HERE for a helpful guide on what to do when you see a vehicle with flashing lights on the side of the road.
Slow Down, Move Over. It's a simple act, but one that can be the difference between life and death.
Slow down, move over. It's the law!
The Slow Down, Move Over law was first introduced in 2003 to protect first responders assisting at roadside emergencies. Thanks to continued advocacy by CAA and other safety partners, the law was expanded in 2015 to include tow truck operators, offering them the same critical protections as police, fire, and ambulance personnel.
The Move Over Law is outlined in Section 159 (2,3) of Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, which mandates that:
| Failing to slow down or move over can result in serious penalties, including:
This law isn’t just about compliance—it’s about saving lives. |
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Know your rights
Protect yourself from surprise fees and unauthorized tows. Understand your rights under the Ontario Towing Bill of Rights.