March 7, 2014
Protecting Roadside Workers
New Roadside Safety Laws Protect Emergency Personnel and Other Workers
Motorists will now be required to “move over” when approaching stopped emergency, enforcement or other designated vehicles. The new law under the Highway Traffic Act comes into effect on Monday, March 10, and will require motorists to stop or slow to a reasonable speed and give a wide berth to those working by the side of the road.
“We are pleased to see the ‘move over’ legislation come into effect for the safety of all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. By slowing down and moving over we can ensure that workers can perform their duties more safely and reduce the risk of anyone getting injured or worse by a vehicle.”
- The Honourable Dan Crummell, Minister of Service NL
This new law is in addition to the existing law that requires drivers to pull over to the side or otherwise yield the right of way when an emergency vehicle is approaching with lights and sirens activated. As a rule, motorists will now create a buffer lane by slowing down and putting as much distance as possible between themselves and a designated stopped vehicle.
Designated vehicles which require a wide berth under the new laws must be operating flashing red, blue or amber lights or have other traffic warning signals. Designated vehicles can include:
- Emergency and enforcement vehicles;
- Tow trucks or other roadside assistance vehicles;
- Search and rescue vehicles;
- Public utility vehicles; and,
- Municipal, provincial or federal enforcement or service vehicles.
For more information on the “move over” law, please visit www.servicenl.gov.nl.ca/moveoverlaw/. In addition, brochures are being mailed out with vehicle registration renewals and stickers.
The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is committed to supporting important social programs, strong communities and the health and well-being of children, families and seniors.
QUICK FACTS
- The new “move over” law requiring safer driving practices when approaching emergency and enforcement personnel at roadside comes into effect on Monday, March 10.
- The new law is in addition to the existing law that requires drivers to pull over to the side or otherwise yield the right of way when an emergency vehicle is approaching with lights and sirens activated.
- Failing to exercise these safe driving practices can result in fines of $300 to $900, and four demerit points against the offending driver’s record in the event of a conviction.
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Media contact:Vanessa Colman-Sadd
Director of Communications
Service NL
709-729-4860, 682-6593
vanessacolmansadd@gov.nl.ca
2014 03 07 10:05 a.m.