A safe trip is the best start to a long weekend. The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding motorists that safe driving includes paying attention, wearing a seatbelt, slowing down, driving sober and moving over for emergency vehicles.
When an emergency vehicle approaches with emergency lights activated, drivers are expected to slow down and move to the right side of the road, clear of any intersection. If an emergency vehicle with their lights activated is stopped roadside, drivers are expected to slow down and move over a lane, if it is safe to do so. It’s the law. Last year (2025), the OPP laid 170 charges against drivers who did not comply with Ontario’s Slow Down, Move Over law. This law ensures emergency personnel have the safe space needed to assist motorists and conduct their work on the roadside.
During last year’s Civic Day long weekend, many drivers made unsafe choices, resulting in 3,514 speeding charges, 512 seatbelt related charges, 77 distracted driving charges and 204 impaired driving charges. There were also nine vehicle related fatalities on the long weekend. No one should put their life or the lives of others at risk. The OPP urges all drivers to make safe and responsible choices on the road.
Wear a seatbelt, pay attention, drive sober and slow down. Each decision made behind the wheel can help protect lives and keep our roads safe for everyone. Drive safe. Arrive safe. Enjoy the long weekend.
“As first responders, OPP officers see the devastating consequences of poor driving decisions. Traffic enforcement is about preventing tragedies and creating safer roads for everyone. This weekend let’s all work together to make safety a priority.”
Karen Meyer, Deputy Commissioner, Traffic Safety and Operational Support
