The move-over law: The people behind the service vehicle
Every day, CAA-Quebec patrollers respond to calls on the roads to help motorists in trouble. Yet their safety is too often put at risk by drivers who fail to comply with the move-over law. While most motorists instinctively slow down when they see a police car or emergency vehicle, many seem to forget that service vehicles are also covered by this law.
That’s why CAA-Quebec and the Association des professionnels du dépannage du Québec (APDQ) are currently running a social media awareness campaign reminding motorists of the importance of complying with the move-over law. Led by the Canadian Automobile Association (CAA), this initiative aims to raise awareness of this essential rule and remind drivers that one simple action—slowing down and moving over—can help protect the lives of those working on our roads. The campaign also supports ongoing efforts by the Sûreté du Québec and the Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) to promote compliance with the law.
“You slow down when approaching an emergency vehicle, so why wouldn’t you do the same when you see a service vehicle at work? Every time our patrollers respond to a call, they face risks. When a driver fails to slow down or move over, they put someone’s life directly in danger.”
A simple rule that saves lives
The Highway Safety Code is clear. When an emergency vehicle, service vehicle or surveillance vehicle is stopped on the side of the road with its emergency lights, flashing lights or illuminated arrow activated, drivers must:
- Slow down
- Move as far away from the stopped vehicle as possible
- Change lanes when conditions allow and it is safe to do so
Failure to do so could land you a fine of $200 to $300, plus fees, and four demerit points on your driving record.
“Our roadside assistance professionals work every day just a few metres away from fast-moving traffic. Far too often, they see vehicles pass dangerously close to them. We welcome this campaign because it reminds motorists that a few seconds of attention and a little extra space can prevent extremely dangerous situations.”
A service vehicle is not a traffic cone
Whether they’re changing a tire, jump-starting a vehicle, towing a car, or providing other roadside assistance, CAA-Quebec patrollers regularly have to work on the shoulder or right beside moving traffic. These workers often have no way to avoid a vehicle that veers off course or passes too close. For CAA-Quebec patrollers and all roadside assistance workers, one thing must be clear: safety should never depend on the colour of the flashing lights on their vehicle.
About CAA-Québec
CAA-Québec offers a wide range of assistance services in a wide variety of sectors, drawing on a human approach. As a socially committed organization, CAA-Québec strives on a daily basis to protect the interests of its members. And in keeping with its values of reliability and benevolence, it fosters responsible consumption and promotes road safety.
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