Slow Down, Move Over - road safety awareness

Tow truck drivers and first responders are teaming up to bring awareness to road safety and the need for drivers to slow down and move over when they see flashing lights.

On March 7, 2017, tow truck driver Courtney Schaefer was struck and killed near Esterhazy, Sask. In remembrance of his death and to remind the public about the dangers these professionals face when working on busy roadways, a roadside event will be taking place.

Between 7 and 8 p.m., today, Wednesday, March 11, 2020, a contingent of emergency services vehicles will be parked in both directions alongside Stoney Trail and 114 Avenue S.E., as a reminder to drivers to slow down and move over.

Motorists must reduce their speed to 60 km/h or the posted speed, whichever is lower, when passing emergency vehicles or tow trucks that are stopped with their lights flashing. This law applies to the lane(s) immediately next to the stopped vehicles.

The fine for speeding in these areas is doubled. If you are not in the lane next to the stopped vehicles, reduce speed and leave lots of space between yourself and emergency personnel and equipment at the scene.

“The purpose of Slow Down, Move Over is to raise awareness for the safety of all roadside workers, including tow trucks, EMS, fire, police, and highway/road maintenance. Working roadside is the most dangerous aspect of our job as tow truck operators and we need to be able to do our jobs as safely as possible.” – Derrek Spencer, City Wide Towing

“Roadways become temporary offices for first responders and tow operators. Paramedics ask motorists to be attentive and give us room to work, while we care for the sick and injured.” – Adam Loria, Public Education Officer, Alberta Health Services, Emergency Medical Services

“Slowing down is not only the law, it is also the right thing to do. Tow truck drivers and emergency workers deserve safe working conditions while they work to make sure that if you ever find yourself in trouble on the road, the right supports are made available to you.” – Sgt. Jason Taylor, Calgary Police Service