CAA reminds motorists to slow down, move over
Warning issued after tow-truck driver had frightening close call in overnight collision
An organization that provides roadside assistance and advocates for road safety and driver protection is reminding motorists in this province to take extra precautions when passing emergency and service vehicles when their lights are flashing.
The warning from Canadian Automobile Association (CAA) comes hours after a frightening incident Friday morning in St. John’s, where a tow truck was struck by an oncoming vehicle.
“Unfortunately, in our line of work, we receive regular reports of accidents or close calls between motorists and emergency and service providers,” Gary Howard, CAA Atlantic’s vice-president of communications, said in a news release issued Friday afternoon.
“We’re thankful the accident (Friday) morning in St. John’s did not cause serious harm to anyone involved.”
It happened at about 4 a.m., as the driver of the flatbed towtruck was loading a disabled vehicle. The driver had the rear ramp lowered at an angle when the oncoming car struck the ramp, narrowly missing the operator, who was standing at the side operating the controls. The car was then thrown back onto the highway, ripping one of its wheels off in the process.
An official on scene said the tow-truck driver was apparently struck by some debris during the incident, but was lucky to only suffer minor injuries.
The driver of the car was taken to hospital with injuries that were not considered life-threatening. The tow-truck driver went on his way with only minor damage to the loading ramp, but the car suffered extensive damage.
The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary is investigating the incident.
The CAA notes that in this province, the law requires motorists to slow down and move over for emergency vehicles, including tow trucks and roadside assistance vehicles, in accordance with the Highway Traffic Act.
“The Slow Down, Move Over legislation differs by province, but a good rule of thumb for everyone is to slow down to a reasonable speed and move to the far lane where it is safe to do so any time they happen upon an emergency and roadside assistance vehicle,” Howard said.
“We want motorists to understand that these folks on the side of the road are almost always helping someone to safety, and often putting themselves in the line of danger to do so. All motorists have a role to play in making sure these men and women get home to their families at the end of their shifts.”