Drive Safe, Give them Space

Every day, emergency responders, tow truck operators, road maintenance crews, and snowplow drivers work just feet away from moving traffic. They are there to help others, clear hazards, and keep our roads functioning, often in dangerous conditions. Their safety depends on drivers paying attention and following the law.

Too often, roadside workers are injured or killed because a passing driver failed to slow down or move over. These are preventable incidents.

What drivers are required to do

In Alberta, when an emergency vehicle, tow truck, or maintenance vehicle is stopped on the side of the road with its flashing lights activated, drivers are legally required to take two actions whenever possible.

Drivers must slow down to 60 km/h or the posted speed limit, whichever is lower, in the lane closest to the stopped vehicle. When it is safe and possible, drivers are also required to move over into another lane, away from the roadside workers.

Moving over whenever you can is not just best practice, it gives workers critical space to do their jobs safely.

Failing to slow down can result in a $243 fine and three demerits. Speeding while passing an emergency or road service vehicle carries doubled fines, ranging from $163 to $991. Any driver travelling 51 km/h or more over the speed limit faces a mandatory court appearance.

Why it matters

Roadside workers have little protection. They rely on drivers making careful, deliberate choices in moments that matter. When vehicles do not slow down or move over, the margin for error disappears.

Distraction, impatience, or assuming someone else will move can have life‑altering consequences for the people doing this work, as well as for drivers themselves.

Whether it is a paramedic responding to an emergency, a tow truck assisting a stranded motorist, or a snowplow clearing lanes during winter conditions, these workers deserve a safe environment to do their jobs.

A small action that makes a big difference

Slowing down and moving over takes only a few seconds, but it can save a life.

Stay alert. Watch further ahead on the roadway. Anticipate stopped vehicles with flashing lights and plan early to slow down or change lanes safely.

Our roads are shared spaces, and how we behave behind the wheel directly affects the safety of others. When you see flashing lights on the side of the road, remember what is at stake.