Move over law in Ontario

Slow down, move over for emergency vehicles

Did you know it's the law to move over for emergency vehicles and tow trucks? Despite being in effect for more than a decade, many drivers remain unaware of the requirements or fail to comply.

When approaching a police vehicle, ambulance, fire truck, tow truck, or other authorized vehicle with flashing lights, drivers are required to slow down and, where possible, move over to provide additional space. The law was expanded to further improve roadside safety for emergency personnel and workers.

This guide explains Ontario's move over law, including fines, penalties, and practical tips for safely sharing the road with emergency vehicles.

What you need to know about the move over law

• Drivers must slow down when approaching stopped emergency vehicles or tow trucks displaying flashing lights.

• Convictions can result in fines ranging from $400 to $2,000 and three demerit points.

• A move over violation may affect your driving record and insurance premiums.

What is the move over law in Ontario?

Ontario's move over law, outlined in Section 159 of the Highway Traffic Act, requires drivers to slow down and proceed with caution when approaching emergency vehicles or tow trucks displaying flashing lights.

Emergency vehicles include:

• Police vehicles

• Ambulances

• Fire trucks

• Tow trucks

• Public utility vehicles

When approaching these vehicles, drivers must:

• Slow down: Reduce speed below the posted limit.

• Pass with caution: Proceed carefully and remain alert.

• Move over: If there is more than one lane available, move into another lane when it is safe to do so.

Move over law Ontario fines

Drivers convicted of failing to obey the move over law can face fines ranging from $400 to $2,000 and receive three demerit points.

Subsequent offences within five years may result in fines between $1,000 and $4,000, possible jail time of up to six months, and a driver's licence suspension of up to two years.

In addition to legal penalties, a conviction may impact your driving record and insurance rates.

Move over law across Canada

Most provinces and territories have their own move over laws and roadside safety requirements. Drivers should familiarize themselves with local regulations whenever travelling outside their home province.

• Newfoundland and Labrador: Drivers must slow down, stop when necessary, or change lanes where possible.

• Nova Scotia: Drivers must slow to 60 km/h or the posted speed limit, whichever is lower.

• Prince Edward Island: Drivers must reduce speed and move over when safe.

• New Brunswick: Motorists must slow significantly when approaching emergency or service vehicles.

• Quebec: Drivers must reduce speed to a safe level and change lanes when possible.

• Manitoba: Specific reduced speed limits apply when passing emergency vehicles.

• Saskatchewan: Drivers must slow down and move over whenever possible.

• Alberta: Motorists must slow to 60 km/h or less where required and move over when safe.

• British Columbia: Reduced speed limits apply when passing stopped emergency vehicles.

• Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut: While rules vary, drivers are encouraged to slow down, leave space, and yield to emergency responders.

Tips for moving over for an emergency vehicle

At an intersection

• Yield the right-of-way to emergency vehicles.

• Do not block the intersection.

• If an emergency vehicle approaches from behind, proceed through the intersection and pull over safely.

On a one-way road

• Signal and pull over to either side of the roadway if it is safe and legal to do so.

On a two-way road

• Signal and pull over as close to the right side of the road as possible.

On a multi-lane highway

• Slow down and move into another lane when safe.

• Do not drive on the shoulder unless directed by authorities.

General safety tips

• Stay alert: Watch for flashing lights and monitor your surroundings.

• Be cautious: Give roadside workers and emergency personnel plenty of space.

• Use signals: Signal before changing lanes.

• Avoid sudden movements: Brake and change lanes gradually.

• Stay on the roadway: Avoid driving on shoulders whenever possible.

• Do not follow emergency vehicles: Maintain a safe distance and obey all traffic laws.

Always move over and leave space for emergency vehicles

Whenever you encounter an emergency vehicle or tow truck stopped on the roadside, slow down, leave plenty of space, and be prepared to stop if necessary. Following the move over law helps protect emergency responders, roadside workers, and everyone sharing the road.

Stay safe and stay informed on Ontario roads

Understanding Ontario's Move Over Law can help you avoid costly fines, protect your driving record, and keep emergency responders and roadside workers safe. If you have questions about how driving violations may affect your auto insurance, contact a BrokerLink advisor today for personalized guidance and coverage options.

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Move over law FAQs

Are tow trucks covered by the move over law?

Yes. Drivers must slow down and proceed with caution when approaching a tow truck displaying flashing amber lights.

Does the move over law affect insurance?

A conviction may impact your driving record and could result in higher insurance premiums, depending on your insurer and driving history.

What does "slow down, move over" mean?

It means drivers must reduce their speed and, when safe, move into another lane to create space between their vehicle and emergency responders or roadside workers.

If you have any questions, contact one of our local branches.