Move Over: Slowing Down for Emergency Vehicles and Tow Trucks

When you approach a stopped emergency vehicle with its red or red-and-blue lights flashing, or a stopped tow truck with its amber lights flashing, Ontario's Highway Traffic Act requires you to slow down and, if you can do so safely, move over a lane.

What to do

1. Slow down as soon as you see the lights.
2. Move over into the next lane if it is safe and legal to do so.
3. If you can't move over, slow down more and pass with care.

The penalties

• First conviction: a fine of $400 to $2,000 and 3 demerit points.
• Higher penalties for later convictions, and a possible licence suspension.

Related rules

• When an emergency vehicle is approaching with its lights or siren on, pull to the right and stop.
• Don't follow a fire truck responding to an alarm too closely.

Charged?

Request the officer's notes and any video, and get advice before pleading. Demerit points and insurance consequences can last for years.

Sources

• Highway Traffic Act
• Ontario: driving and roads

Read next: Pedestrian Crossovers and Crosswalks: Wait Until They're Across

General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

Photos from Pexels: An aerial view of a highway interchange · Driving down a tree-lined road at dusk.

This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.