Changes are coming to roadside safety laws in Alberta. As of Sept. 1, drivers will have to slow down to 60 km/h for any worker stopped on the side of the road with lights flashing.
According to the province, Alberta is one of the only provinces to not have “move over” legalization.
Before the change, only tow truck drivers and first responders are covered under the Traffic Safety Act.
“This is a common-sense rule change. If you see any flashing lights and people working on the side of the road, slow down to 60 km/h or move over to make an open lane beside them,” says Devin Dreeshen, minister of transportation and economic corridors. “We want to protect our police, paramedics, maintenance workers and tow truck drivers so they can get home safely at the end of the day.”
Drivers are also required to move to the far lane when passing workers if it is safe and take steps to allow other drivers to move over as well.
Failing to comply with the new rules can result in a fine between $243-324, as well as three demerit points.
According to Alberta’s Workers’ Compensation Board, there were 2,229 injuries involving workers being struck by a vehicle between 2014 and 2018.
