Few know about 'move over' law, police say
The 'move over' legislation requires drivers to slow down to 60 kilometres per hour, or the posted speed limit if it is lower, when passing a stopped emergency vehicle with its lights flashing. Drivers traveling in a lane immediately adjacent to a stopped emergency vehicle must also move into another lane if one is available and it is safe to do so.
Officers say most vehicles are failing to comply.
"I'm finding the vast majority of vehicles aren't slowing down and when I motion for them to slow down they're just looking confused," said RCMP Cpl. Andy Hamilton.
Hamilton said when he asks motorists why they did not slow down many say they are unaware of the new law.
"On some occasions I've been able to finish my traffic stop and catch up with a few vehicles and each time the motorists are complaining they have no knowledge of this new legislation although there has been some media attention given to it."
The new legislation, passed during the fall session of the legislature, was introduced as a way of protecting police officers, paramedics and other emergency personnel. MLA David Wilson, a former paramedic, originally introduced it as a private members' bill in the fall 2007 session.
Officers are not yet writing tickets under the new law, but Hamilton said a first offense ticket will come with a $340 fine, which he said will likely boost compliance.
Prince Edward Island, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia all have some form of the "move over" legislation, however each differs in the requirements it places upon drivers.