Thunder Bay, ON – On September 19th, the Thunder Bay Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), in collaboration with the OPP Traffic Incident Management & Enforcement Team (TIME) and the Ministry of Transportation Ontario (MTO), conducted a joint enforcement initiative targeting the “Slow Down, Move Over” law.
The operation resulted in over 25 charges being laid, ranging from violations of the “Move Over” law to inspection and registration-related offenses.
Provincial Constable Jim Thomson of the Thunder Bay OPP Detachment emphasized the importance of the law, stating, “We want to remind the public and professional drivers that they must slow down, proceed with caution, and move over to the other lane if it’s a multi-lane highway. On single-lane highways, ensure you slow down and provide sufficient room for the emergency vehicle while keeping yourself safe.”
The OPP also reminded drivers that any vehicle with a siren or flashing red or red and blue lights is considered an emergency vehicle, requiring drivers to “slow down and move over.” This includes police vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, MTO enforcement vehicles, tow trucks, and even some public utility vehicles.
The OPP investigates thousands of preventable collisions each year, making this a serious road safety concern. The force remains committed to its Provincial Traffic Safety Strategy, aimed at reducing injuries and fatalities and improving safety on roads, waterways, and trails.
