Police remind drivers to pull over, stop for emergency vehicles

NEWS RELEASE
ONTARIO PROVINCIAL POLICE
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Members of the Huronia West detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind drivers to pull over to the right and come to a complete stop, when safe to do so, when emergency vehicles approach with their lights and sirens activated.

First responders face several challenges when responding to emergency situations, which includes navigating through traffic when travelling to calls for service.

Every second counts and the OPP would like to remind drivers that providing a clear path is vital and can have an impact on the outcome of a critical situation.

The Highway Traffic Act (HTA) outlines several charges under Section 159: “The driver of a vehicle, upon the approach of a police department vehicle with its bell or siren sounding or with its lamp producing intermittent flashes of red light or red and blue light, or upon the approach of an ambulance, fire department vehicle or public utility emergency vehicle with its bell or siren sounding or its lamp producing intermittent flashing of red light, shall immediately bring such vehicle to a standstill when safe to do so.”

This can result in a fine of $490 including surcharge and three demerit points under the HTA.

Drivers, passengers, and other road users can significantly contribute to safe roads by avoiding risks and complying with all traffic laws.

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