TORONTO, — CAA South Central Ontario has joined provincial transportation officials, police services, emergency responders and towing industry representatives to strengthen awareness of Ontario’s Slow Down, Move Over law ahead of National Slow Down, Move Over Day on October 17.
The campaign comes as Ontario prepares to expand roadside safety protections on January 1, 2027, requiring motorists to slow down and move over for additional categories of work vehicles displaying flashing amber lights.
CAA and Emergency Responders Highlight Roadside Safety Risks
CAA South Central Ontario is working with the Ministry of Transportation, Canadian Towing Association, Toronto Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, Toronto Fire Services, Toronto Paramedic Services and 407 ETR to encourage safer driving near roadside incidents.
“For tow operators and first responders, the roadside is their workplace,” says Teresa Di Felice, assistant vice-president of government and community relations at CAA South Central Ontario. “When drivers see flashing lights, we need them to recognize that there is a trained professional helping someone at the roadside. Slowing down and moving over gives those workers the space they need to do their jobs more safely.”
CAA research indicates that although Ontario motorists generally understand the importance of roadside safety, their reported driving behaviour varies depending on the vehicles involved.
More than 90 per cent of drivers report slowing down and moving over for emergency vehicles, compared with 49 per cent for tow trucks.
Nearly four in five Ontario drivers have heard of the legislation, but only 55 per cent know the requirements apply to stopped tow trucks displaying flashing lights.
Ontario Expands Slow Down, Move Over Law in January 2027
Beginning January 1, 2027, Ontario’s expanded legislation will extend protections to additional roadside workers operating vehicles with activated flashing amber lights.
Additional Vehicles Covered Under the New Rules
The expanded requirements will include highway maintenance vehicles, public utility vehicles, waste collection trucks and roadside assistance vehicles.
Utility vehicles covered by the changes include those servicing electricity, water, natural gas and telecommunications infrastructure. Waste collection vehicles include garbage, recycling and organic waste trucks.
“Every day, the men and women who respond to emergencies, assist stranded drivers and maintain our highways put themselves at risk to keep others safe,” said Prabmeet Sarkaria, Minister of Transportation. “That’s why, beginning January 1, 2027, we’re expanding Ontario’s Slow Down, Move Over law to protect more roadside workers on the job because something as simple as slowing down and moving over can save lives and help ensure those who keep our roads safe make it home to their families.”
CAA Tests Digital Warning Signs on Tow Trucks
CAA is also piloting Variable Message Signs technology on tow trucks across Ontario to determine whether enhanced roadside warnings improve driver responses.
Research from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety found motorists were 95 per cent more likely to change lanes when an active Variable Message Sign was present.
CAA’s pilot will examine whether clearer directional messaging helps drivers identify roadside incidents earlier and respond appropriately.
“Drivers are processing a lot of information when they approach a roadside incident,” said Di Felice. “A clear, visible message may help them understand what is happening sooner and give them more time to slow down, check surrounding traffic and move over safely.”
CAA research also found that 93 per cent of Ontario respondents support using Variable Message Signs to improve roadside safety.
Police Emphasize Driver Responsibilities
Toronto Police Service says passing vehicles remain a significant hazard for officers working beside active traffic.
“Many police officers have found themselves in situations where they are stopped on the side of the road doing their job, only to have vehicles pass dangerously close by,” says Robert Johnson, Deputy Chief, Toronto Police Service. “When first responders or tow truck drivers have their lights flashing, drivers are legally required to slow down safely below the speed limit and leave space for emergency vehicles.”
CN Tower to Mark National Slow Down, Move Over Day
Toronto’s CN Tower will illuminate in yellow and black on October 17 to recognize National Slow Down, Move Over Day and honour roadside workers.
The lighting program will include five-minute displays at the beginning of each hour, followed by additional displays on the half-hour.
CAA is also promoting a public service announcement highlighting the experiences of roadside workers and the dangers they face while assisting motorists.
The awareness campaign underscores the importance of safer driving practices as Ontario approaches the implementation of expanded roadside worker protections in 2027.
Evan McKenzie is a contributor at Vaughantoday.ca, covering a wide range of topics including local news, politics, business, technology, sports, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, balanced reporting that helps readers stay informed about current events and issues that matter to their communities. His work aims to provide useful information, timely updates, and relevant stories presented in an accessible and reader-friendly way.