Fail to Move over for Emergency Vehicle

The “Move Over Law” in Ontario, under Section 159(2) of the Highway Traffic Act, requires drivers to slow down and, when possible, change lanes to give safe passage to various emergency vehicles, including:

• Police vehicles
• Ambulances
• Fire trucks
• Tow trucks: Must be given space when flashing amber lights are visible at the roadside.
• Ministry of Transportation (MTO) vehicles: Includes vehicles used for emergency responses or highway maintenance, often displaying blue or amber lights.

This law requires you to give a wide berth to any emergency vehicle stopped on the roadside with flashing lights. Failing to move over can result in serious penalties, impacting your driving record and finances.

You can view the full details of the legislation here.

A conviction for failing to move over for an emergency vehicle comes with significant penalties in Ontario, which may include:

• Fines: Between $400 and $2,000
• Demerit points: 3 points added to your driving record
• Insurance increases: Convictions may lead to substantial hikes in insurance premiums and, in some cases, policy cancellation for high-risk drivers

The consequences of a conviction highlight the importance of fighting the Move Over Law and ensuring the safety of emergency personnel.

Failing to move over for an emergency vehicle is considered a major offence by most insurance companies, with the potential to affect not just your rates but those of other household members. Implications can include:

• Higher premiums: Insurance providers may raise your rates significantly, considering you a high-risk driver.
• Policy cancellation: Some insurance providers may cancel your policy altogether if you accumulate multiple major convictions.
• Impact on household members: Insurance policies covering other drivers in your home may be affected by a conviction on your record.

This type of charge can have costly, long-lasting effects on your insurance coverage, making it essential to fight the ticket.

We were driving at about the speed limit on the 401.  As we came over a rise in the roadway there was a police vehicle on the road who had stopped a car.  I tried to move over but there wasn’t enough time.  Further up the road was another police car that pulled us over.  We tried to explain the situation but the officer wouldn’t listen.  OTT Legal did listen, they went to court on our behalf and had the charge dismissed.  Many thanks and a huge relief.  James Applecott, Brampton

When it comes to fighting a ticket for failing to move over for an emergency vehicle, having a strategic approach is crucial. Our team at OTT Legal handles every aspect of your case, leveraging our expertise to maximize your chances of a positive outcome. Here’s how we approach defending your case:

• File for a Court Date & Order the Disclosure:
  We arrange your trial date and secure all relevant evidence from the prosecution. Accessing this disclosure gives us insights into the evidence and helps us identify potential weaknesses in their case.

• Analyze the Facts in Detail:
  Our team meticulously examines the case, from the specific circumstances to the ticket’s details. Were visibility conditions an issue? Did the location pose any unique challenges? We look for any inconsistencies or errors that could strengthen your defence.

• Pretrial Discussions:
  We engage with the prosecution in pre-trial hearings to discuss the case and identify opportunities for a charge reduction or even dismissal. This collaborative step can often lead to favourable outcomes without needing to go to trial.

• File Motions and Applications:
  Certain legal motions can challenge the validity of the prosecution’s evidence. We know which motions to use in your specific case to weaken the evidence against you and potentially dismiss the charge.

• Prepare a Comprehensive Defence for Trial:
  Should your case go to trial, our team leaves nothing to chance. We build a thorough defence, covering every aspect of the charge to create the strongest possible argument in court.

• Leverage Legal Technicalities:
  From procedural errors to the misapplication of laws, we understand the technical details that can impact your case. We use these legal technicalities to challenge and potentially reduce or dismiss the charges.

With OTT Legal handling every step, you gain peace of mind knowing a dedicated and knowledgeable team is fighting to protect your driving record, finances, and insurance rates. Contact us to discuss your case and explore how we can help you achieve the best possible result.

When facing a charge, having an experienced and knowledgeable defence team on your side can make all the difference. At OTT Legal, we understand the complexities of Ontario traffic law and are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome. Here’s why our clients trust us to protect their driving records:

• Expert Paralegals Specialising in Ontario Traffic Law
  Our team of highly trained paralegals focuses exclusively on Ontario traffic law, equipping us with the in-depth knowledge and expertise needed to navigate complex cases and defend against even the most challenging charges.

• Proven Track Record of Success
  With a history of successfully reducing fines and avoiding demerit points, OTT Legal has earned a reputation for getting results. Our dedication to each case means that we thoroughly explore every legal avenue to ensure the most favourable outcome possible.

• Affordable and Professional Services
  We believe in providing high-quality legal defence without the high costs. OTT Legal offers affordable services designed to make expert representation accessible, so you can protect your licence and financial wellbeing without breaking the bank.

Taking swift action can make a significant difference in your case. Contact OTT Legal today for a free consultation to discuss your options and protect your driving future.