Move over when lights are flashing

Whenever you see emergency lights flashing on a highway, you must move over. MOst of us realise that is the law when we see the lights behind us, but it's also true when we see them ahead. If the OPP has a car pulled over on the shoulder it is the law to slow down and proceed with caution. Move over if it's safe.

The following press release was issued by the OPP this week to reinforce public understanding of the rules -

Ignorance of the Law Not an Excuse
“SLOW DOWN or MOVE OVER”

(Northumberland County, ON) – Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would once again like to remind motorists that when passing an emergency vehicle stopped with its emergency lights activated in the same direction of travel, either in a lane or on the shoulder of a road or highway, to slow down and pass with caution. If the road has two or more lanes, the motorist must move over into another lane, if it can be done safely.

The legislation regarding passing emergency vehicles was enacted in April of 2003 in order to improve safety for the public and emergency personnel who must work on the side of busy highways. The impetus for the legislation was a roadside collision near London, Ontario, which claimed the life of one OPP officer and injured two others. Members of the public have also been killed or injured during traffic stops or emergency operations.

“It’s not something new: motorists have a responsibility to know and obey the rules of the road. Ignorance of the law is no excuse,” said OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino.

Failing to slow down or move over can result in the following:

First offence - $400 to $2000 fine, plus three demerit points upon conviction and a possible drivers license suspension for up to two years.

Subsequent offence (within five years) - $1000 to $4000 fine, possible jail time of up to six months and a possible license suspension for up to two years.

Police officers and emergency personnel put their lives on the line every time they make a traffic stop or provide emergency services. They shouldn’t have to worry about irresponsible drivers who disobey the law.