Posted:
For Immediate Release.)
HRM Partners in Policing are urging motorists to use caution around emergency vehicles.
Police are trying to keep all emergency personnel safe by reminding citizens of the legislation under the Motor Vehicle Act surrounding emergency vehicles. Police remind motorists that on a road with one lane of travel for your direction, slow down to 60 km/h or the posted speed limit if it is less, when passing a stopped emergency vehicle with emergency equipment activated. On a road with two or more lanes in your direction, slow down to 60 km/h or the posted speed limit if it is less and move over into a lane further away from the stopped vehicle if you can do so safely.
Motorists also have a duty to move to the right side of the road and stop upon the approach of an emergency vehicle with emergency equipment activated. Motorists shall remain stopped unless otherwise directed by a peace officer or until the emergency vehicle has passed.
Upon conviction, motorists could face a fine of $169.91 to $687.41 depending on the offence. These sections of the Motor Vehicle Act were put in place to protect police officers, paramedics and firefighters.
Everyone has a responsibility to keep the roadways safe.