Canada: Many motorists still not following 'Move Over' law

The ‘Move Over’ law has been in effect in New Brunswick since Jan. 1, 2013.

“While many New Brunswick drivers know the law and comply with it, emergency responders still encounter some who don’t on a daily basis,” says Cpl. Nick Arbour of the West District RCMP. “When motorists fail to give police, fire fighters and paramedics room to do their work, it puts them in unnecessary danger of serious injury or even death.”

When an emergency vehicle is stopped on the road with its flashing lights on, motorists must do the following:

– Slow down and proceed with caution.

– Make sure it's safe to proceed, then move over to the left, away from the vehicle.

– If there are two or more lanes of traffic, the driver must move into another lane if/when it can be done safely.

The fine for not slowing down and moving over for an emergency vehicle is $292.50 and three demerit points.