Halifax District RCMP is asking motorists to help keep them safe when driving.

On May 1, 2010, an Act to Increase Safety for First Responders and Others, often referred to as the ‘Move Over’ law, came into effect in Nova Scotia and makes it an offence to speed in excess 60 km/h or the posted speed limit, whichever is the lesser of the two, when passing a stopped emergency vehicle when its emergency lights are on. Motorists are also required to change lanes to the lane furthest from the stopped emergency vehicle if that lane is free and it is safe to do so.

Unfortunately, during the month of January, there were 19 drivers charged by Halifax District RCMP for failing to slow down and move over while officers were out dealing with other motorists. These drivers face fines ranging from $352.50 to $2,442.50.

“All of us want to return home to see our families at the end of our shift,” says Cpl. Dal Hutchinson, Halifax District RCMP. “Slow down, mover over when passing an emergency vehicle or a tow truck.”

First responders include the following:

Ambulances
Police vehicles
Fire department vehicles
Department of Natural Resources fire vehicles
Fire chiefs’ or deputy fire chiefs’ vehicles
Conservation officers’ vehicles
Motor vehicle inspectors’ vehicles
Motor carrier inspectors’ vehicles

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Source: Media Release