“Slow Down and Move Over” campaign results in 450 tickets issued province-wide

BC Highway Patrol’s latest campaign resulted in more than 450 tickets issued province-wide.

The month-long “Slow Down and Move Over” effort was done to persuade drivers to slow down and move over when they see emergency vehicles, road maintenance vehicles, or any official vehicle with flashing lights stopped at the side of a BC Highway.

“BC Highway Patrol conducted multiple targeted operations throughout the province in February to make highways more secure for emergency responders and maintenance workers, ensuring they safely end their shift and return home to their loved ones,” said Superintendent Mike Coyle.

“More than 450 tickets were written province-wide, but the real point was education and awareness.”

According to the Patrol, the campaign reinforces Section 47.02 of the BC Motor Vehicle Act Regulations which requires that all drivers reduce their speed and move into the furthest lane of traffic away from stopped vehicles (if possible) with flashing red, blue, or yellow lights. The law is in effect when you see any of the following:

• Police, fire and ambulance;
• Construction vehicles;
• Tow trucks;
• Utility and maintenance vehicles.

Drivers are encouraged to follow the 70/40 rule:

• When the normal speed limit is 80 km/h or higher, drivers must slow down to 70 km/h or less;
• When the normal speed limit is below 80 km/h, drivers must slow down to 40 km/h or less.
• Lets all do our part to keep our emergency, road maintenance and official vehicle workers safe at the roadside.

Drivers who fail to obey this law can face a $173 violation ticket.