OPP reminding motorists to slow down and move over this long weekend

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The OPP say a lot of motorists are not getting the message to slow down or move over for police and emergency vehicles pulled over on the side of the road. Last year, more than 2,000 charges were laid against motorists who did not abide by Ontario’s “Slow Down and Move Over” law.

With the heavy traffic expected this Civic Day long weekend, the OPP says drivers will likely see many roadside emergency vehicles, police and tow trucks, making it especially important for drivers to slow down and move over.

Failing to comply with law carries a hefty fine of $400-$2000, as well as three demerit points. Drivers are also being reminded that last year, the law was amended to include moving over for tow trucks who are on the side of the road with their amber lights flashing.

Since 1989, five OPP officers have died after their roadside cruisers were struck on the side of the road. Last year, six OPP vehicles were hit, as well as three ambulances and a tow truck. OPP Sgt. Kerry Schmidt also said an OPP cruiser was hit just three weeks ago as an officer was responding to an incident on the roadside. Luckily, the officer suffered only minor scrapes and bruises. The driver of the vehicle that struck the cruiser has been charged.