Slow Down Move Over
New legislation has been adopted and set to go into force, to help ensure the safety and well being of emergency workers and emergency responders in British Columbia.
Effective June 1st, 2009, drivers must slow to 70 km/h on highways where the speed limit is 80 km/h or higher, and to 40 km/h where the limit is below 80 km/h, when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle that has its lights flashing. If there is another lane going in the same direction, drivers must also move into that lane if it is safe to do so.
The requirements will apply to drivers passing police, fire, ambulance and towing vehicles, as well as vehicles used by commercial vehicle safety and enforcement personnel, passenger vehicle inspectors, conservation officers, park rangers, and special provincial constables employed in the Ministry of Forests and Range.
Those found in contravention will face a fine and three penalty points against their license. The fine, including a 15 per cent victim surcharge, is $148 if paid within 30 days or $173 thereafter. Currently, five provinces and 40 U.S. states have similar requirements. An existing penalty remains in place for failing to yield to a moving emergency vehicle.
The full media release made by the provincial government can be found at by following the following link http://www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases_2005-2009/2009PSSG0041-000675.htm
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