Move Over Law: 10 years and counting!

The measure to implement a safety corridor on the province’s roads was introduced on August 5, 2012. Ten years later, the goal is still just as important: to reduce risks and protect all first responders and others working on the side of the road.

Remember to move over and slow down any time you see ambulance attendants, police, firefighters, highway traffic or wildlife protection officers, and tow trucks, including our CAA-Quebec patrollers and affiliated partners who are there to help you when you have a problem. You’re happy they’re there when you need them, and they’re happy to be able to do their job safely.

When you see bright yellow arrows or rotating or flashing lights, here’s what to do:

1.     Slow down to a safe and reasonable speed

2.     Change lanes if you can do so safely.

A simple yet often overlooked rule

Too many people still fail to obey this law. “Unfortunately, we often hear reports of motorists passing too close to our patrollers, and it’s the same situation for other emergency services. It really puts them in danger,” says Marco Harrison, a road safety expert and director of the CAA-Quebec Foundation. “But it’s such an easy thing to do, especially if you keep your eyes on the road and scan the horizon while you drive,” Harrison says.

Did you know that according to the Highway Safety Code you’re required to obey the Move Over Law? Failure to do so could land you a $200 to $300 fine (plus fees) and 4 demerit points on your driving record.

Learn more about the Move Over Law

If you want to learn more about the Move Over Law and when and how it applies in Quebec, you’ll find detailed videos and illustrations on the SAAQ website.