Laval road safety operation reminds drivers to respect move-over rules
Quebec’s Ministry of Transport and Sustainable Mobility and the Laval Police Service held a road safety awareness operation in Laval on November 2 to remind drivers about the rules surrounding the safety corridor, also known as the move-over requirement.
The operation took place around lunchtime on Route 148, along avenue des Bois near rue Principale.
Officers and ministry representatives met with motorists, distributed information sheets and reviewed the steps drivers must take when approaching certain vehicles stopped along the roadside.
When drivers must move over
A safety corridor is the space drivers must leave between their vehicle and certain vehicles stopped on a public road in order to protect workers carrying out roadside interventions.
According to the ministry, drivers must take the required precautions when approaching:
- an emergency vehicle with flashing lights activated;
- a tow truck with flashing lights activated;
- a surveillance or road vehicle displaying an illuminated yellow arrow.
Drivers must first slow down and, when it is safe to do so, change lanes to create additional distance from the stopped vehicle.
If changing lanes cannot be done safely, motorists must move as far away as possible while remaining in their lane.
Drivers are also asked to remain especially cautious until they have completely passed the intervention area.
Rule has been in place since 2012
The ministry notes that respecting the safety corridor has been required under Quebec’s Highway Safety Code since 2012.
The rule is intended to reduce risks for police officers, tow truck operators, road workers and other people who may need to work close to moving traffic.
The November 2 initiative was part of ongoing efforts to reduce risky driving behaviour and improve safety around roadside interventions.
(A.G.M)
