County Urges Drivers to Follow Ontario's Move Over Law

The County of Simcoe and County of Simcoe Paramedics are reminding motorists to stay alert and follow Ontario’s Move Over law, a critical, life-saving regulation designed to protect emergency responders and roadside workers.

“Every day, our emergency responders and roadside workers put their lives on the line to protect and care for our residents and visitors,” said Warden Basil Clarke. “The Move Over law isn’t just a legal obligation, it’s a moral one. Slowing down and moving over gives these professionals the space they need to do their jobs safely and return home to their families. Let’s all do our part to keep them safe.”

In Ontario, drivers are required to slow down and, if it is safe to do so, move over one lane when either approaching stopped emergency vehicles or when emergency vehicles approach them with flashing lights activated. This includes paramedics, police, fire, and tow trucks.

Failure to comply could result in fines ranging from $400 to $2,000, three demerit points, and even a possible driver's licence suspension for up to two years if convicted.

“When our paramedics are responding to emergencies, every second counts, and so does every inch of space,” said Sarah Mills, Director and Chief, County of Simcoe Paramedic Services (CSPS). “The Move Over law is a critical safeguard that allows paramedics and other emergency personnel to work without fear of being struck by passing vehicles. We urge all drivers to abide by the law. Give us a Brake. Slow down. Move over.”

County of Simcoe Paramedic Services are doing their part to improve road safety, recently unveiling their Paramedic Driving Enhancement Program (PDEP), a new initiative aimed at strengthening the driving skills of paramedics. This advanced training program is designed to elevate driver proficiency and ultimately enhance road safety across the community.

Developed in partnership with the Canada Safety Council and Hamilton Paramedic Services, PDEP delivers targeted instruction tailored to the unique driving conditions faced by paramedics. The program includes five hours of classroom education and two hours of supervised, in-vehicle training, followed by a graduated driving matrix that ensures new recruits are assessed and signed off before transporting patients independently.

CSPS is also working with the Safety Council of Canada to develop a standardized driver safety curriculum for paramedic colleges across Ontario.

For more information on Ontario’s Move Over law, visit www.simcoe.ca/moveover or read here.