Seven drivers learned an expensive lesson on Sunday after Ontario Provincial Police conducted a targeted crackdown on a road safety law that too many Ontario motorists still ignore: the Move Over rule.
What the Law Requires
Ontario's Move Over law requires drivers to slow down and, where safe to do so, change lanes away from emergency vehicles, including police cruisers, ambulances, fire trucks, and tow trucks. That are stopped at the roadside with their lights activated. Failing to comply carries a penalty of $490 and three demerit points.
The fine exists for good reason. First responders and tow truck operators working at the side of the road are in a genuinely dangerous position, and drivers who barrel past at highway speed without moving over create serious risk of injury or death.
Sunday's Enforcement
OPP officers specifically targeted this behaviour on Sunday, pulling over and ticketing seven drivers caught failing to move over. The enforcement action was part of a broader provincial effort to remind drivers that the rule is actively enforced, not just a courtesy suggestion.
Why It Still Happens
Despite the law being on the books for years, Move Over violations remain frustratingly common. Drivers cite distraction, not seeing the lights in time, or simply not being aware of the rule. In high-traffic conditions, changing lanes isn't always possible, but the law still requires slowing down to a safe speed.
A Reminder for All Ottawa-Area Drivers
Whether you're on the 417, the 416, or any rural highway in Eastern Ontario, the message from OPP is clear: when you see flashing lights at the roadside, move over. If you can't safely change lanes, slow down significantly.
For the people working in those danger zones, paramedics stabilizing a patient, an officer directing traffic after a collision, a tow truck driver hooking up a vehicle, your compliance could mean the difference between going home safely and not going home at all.
It's a simple ask. Move over.
Source: Ottawa Citizen
