Ontario has a move over law that is in effect to ensure the safety of emergency personnel and drivers. This law requires drivers to slow down and move over one lane when passing an emergency vehicle that is pulled over on the side of the road. A stopped emergency vehicle can result in a fine and some demerit points. In this article, we will discuss why it is necessary to have a move over law and what the penalty for its violation is.
We will also provide tips for moving over for an emergency vehicle and answer any frequently asked questions related to this topic.
Why is it Necessary To Have a Move Over Law?
Move over laws are necessary to protect law enforcement officers and other first responders who are working on the side of the road. These laws require drivers to move over or slow down when they see an emergency vehicle with its lights on. This gives the first responder a safe space to work, and it also helps to prevent accidents.
Move over laws vary from state to state, but they are all designed to keep first responders safe. In some states, the law requires drivers to move over a lane if they can do so safely. In other states, the law requires drivers to slow down when they see an emergency vehicle with its lights on. No matter what the law is in your state, it is important to use common sense and be cautious when you are driving near first responders.
What Type of Vehicles Are Designated as Emergency Vehicles?
Emergency vehicles include:
- Police cars
- Ambulances
- Fire vehicle
- Other vehicles used for law enforcement or public safety (with red and blue lights)
These vehicles are usually equipped with special equipment and features that allow them to respond quickly to emergencies. They can even go above the posted speed limit. Some emergency vehicles may also have special markings or lights that help identify them.
The 4S Move Over Law in Ontario
The 4S Move Over Law in Ontario applies to all drivers on roads with a speed limit of 80 km/h or less. When approaching an emergency vehicle that is stopped with its lights activated, you must:
1. Slow: Slow down, move, if safe and possible, move into another lane.
2. Signal: Use your turn signal to let other drivers know you are changing lanes.
3. Side: Move to the right side of the road, clear of any intersections.
4. Stop: If you cannot safely move over, stop your vehicle before reaching the emergency vehicle.
Drivers who fail to slow down and move over for tow truck drivers are subject to a fine.
How To Move Over Safely On Different Types of Roads?
There are different types of roads, and each type has its own set of rules for how to move over safely. Here are some tips on how to move over safely on different types of roads if flashing amber lights stopped you:
1. On Highways
If you’re on a highway, the best thing to do is not to block the shoulder lane or keep driving on. Pull as close to the right lane as possible. Be sure to use your turn signal so that other drivers will know what you’re doing.
2. On Multi-Lane Roads
When you’re on the road with two or more lanes, you should always try to move over to the far lane if possible. This will give you more space and make it easier for other drivers to see you. If you can’t move over, stay in your lane and be extra careful.
3. On Intersections
If you’re approaching an intersection, it’s usually best to stay in your lane and don’t turn left if an emergency vehicle pulled near you. However, if you need to turn left, you should try to move into the left turn lane if possible. This will help you make your turn more easily and safely. After that, you can proceed straight and then pull to the right and stop.
4. On One-Way Street:
When you’re on a one-way street, you should always try to pull to the left side of the road if possible.
Penalties For Move Over Law Violation
If you violate move over law in Ontario, you may be subject to a fine and demerit points. You may also face jail time if you are involved in an accident that injures or kills someone. Drivers can face the following penalties:
First offence
- The ticket for violating the move over law in Ontario, Canada, is between $400 and $2,000.
- 3 demerit points will be added if you are found guilty.
- You could also face possible suspension of your driver’s license for up to 2 years
Subsequent offences (within 5 years)
- fines ranging from $1,000 to $4,000
- 3 demerit points if convicted
- possible jail time of up to 6 months
- possible suspension of driver’s licence for up to 2 years.
Tips For Moving For An Emergency Vehicle
If you are driving and see an emergency vehicle approaching from behind with its lights on, you should know what to do.
Here are some tips for moving over for an emergency vehicle:
– If possible, pull over to the right side of the road and stop.
– If you cannot pull over safely, slow down and try to move over as far as possible.
– Do not panic. Remain calm and focus on driving safely.
– Be sure to signal before you change lanes, and always yield to the emergency vehicle.
– If you are in heavy traffic, do not try to move over. Just stay in your lane and allow the emergency vehicle to pass.
– Never block an intersection. This can cause traffic disruptions and put people in danger.
– Always give emergency vehicles the right of way, and never try to outrun them. Remember, they are on a mission to save lives.
Conclusion
Move over laws are in place to protect emergency workers and tow truck operators who are working on the side of the road. These laws require drivers to slow down and move over if possible when approaching these workers. Failure to do so can result in a fine and demerit points. Remember, the best thing you can do is to be aware of your surroundings and drive safely. Thanks for reading!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are any vehicles exempted from the move over law?
Yes, there are some vehicles that are exempted from the move over law. The very vehicles for which move over law is made are exempt from following the move over law. These include fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, tow trucks, and highway maintenance vehicles. If you see one of these vehicles stopped on the side of the road with its emergency lights on, you should slow down and move over if possible.
Do you have to follow move over law while driving on a roundabout?
No, you don’t have to follow the move over law while driving on a roundabout. However, you should yield to traffic on the right and use caution when entering and exiting the roundabout.
How to fight move over law violation ticket?
If you have been pulled over and issued a ticket for violating the Move Over Law, there are a few things that you can do to fight the ticket and avoid paying the associated fines. The first thing that you should do is consult with an attorney who specializes in traffic violations. They will be able to advise you on the best course of action to take in order to fight the ticket.
The next thing that you can do is gather evidence to support your case. This may include eyewitness testimony from passengers in your vehicle or other drivers who saw the incident occur. You will also want to obtain a copy of the police report from the officer who issued the ticket. This report will contain important information that can be used to build your defense.
Once you have gathered all of the evidence, you must present your case to the court. The judge will then decide whether or not you are guilty of violating the Move Over Law. If you are found guilty, you will be required to pay a fine. However, if you can successfully fight the ticket, you may be able to avoid paying the fine altogether.
Is the law of move over for emergency vehicles the same in other states of Canada?
The law of move over for emergency vehicles may vary from one province to another in Canada.
For example, in Alberta, the law requires motorists to slow down and move over when they see an emergency vehicle with its lights flashing on the side of the road. If you cannot move over, you must slow down to 70 km/h.
In Ontario, the law requires motorists to slow down and move over when they see an emergency vehicle with its lights flashing on the side of the road. If you cannot move over, you must slow down to 60 km/h.
Each province has its own legislation governing the law of move over for emergency vehicles, so it is best to check with your local authorities to determine the specific requirements in your province.
Can violating move over law affect insurance?
Yes, violating the move over law can affect your insurance according to the highway traffic act. If you are involved in an accident while violating the move over law, your insurance company may refuse to pay out your claim. Additionally, your insurance rates could increase if you are found at fault for an accident.
