CAA urges drivers to slow down and move over for roadside workers

CAA South Central Ontario, along with police, fire, paramedic, towing and transportation partners, is urging drivers to slow down and move over for tow operators, first responders and other roadside workers ahead of National Slow Down, Move Over Day.

According to CAA, Ontario drivers report slowing down and moving over for emergency vehicles more than 90 per cent of the time, but only 49 per cent of the time for tow trucks. The organization also found that nearly 4 in 5 Ontario drivers have heard of the law, but only 55 per cent knew they were required to slow down and move over for stopped tow trucks displaying flashing lights.

“For tow operators and first responders, the roadside is their workplace,” said Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice-president of government and community relations at CAA South Central Ontario.

Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, Ontario’s Slow Down, Move Over law will expand to include certain work vehicles stopped at the roadside with flashing amber lights activated, including roadside assistance vehicles, utility vehicles, highway maintenance vehicles and waste collection trucks.

CAA is also piloting variable message signs on tow trucks across Ontario to evaluate whether enhanced visibility and roadside messaging can encourage motorists to move over more consistently.