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Advocating for improved road-side worker health and safety protections
Slow Down Move Over Legislation Amendments under the Highway Traffic Act
In Ontario, Section 159(2) and (3) of the Highway Traffic Act requires drivers to slow down and proceed with caution when passing an emergency vehicle or tow truck parked on the side of a road with its lights activated. The law aimed at protecting roadside workers is intended to have drivers, as soon as they see a vehicle stopped at the side of the road with its emergency lights on, to slow down and, if possible, vacate the lane next to the stopped vehicle. Drivers who fail to abide by the law face penalties.
Like in British Columbia, motorists are required to slow down and move over for all vehicles stopped alongside the road that have flashing red, blue or yellow lights. This includes maintenance workers, utility workers, police, fire, ambulance, tow trucks, Commercial Vehicle Safety Enforcement personnel, land surveyors, animal control workers, garbage collectors and other roadside workers. In Alberta similar amendments to legislation have recently occurred. Ontario workers deserve the same level of protection. Express your industry support.
Please find drafted letter template for your consideration to customize.
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