(MIDDLESEX COUNTY, ON) – The forecast is in and the word on the street is that we are in for a bumpy ride this weekend. With the changes expected from rain, to ice to heavy snow, driving is expected to be a challenge. But that doesn’t mean you have to be the vehicle in the ditch. The good news is, drivers know what to expect and there is time to prepare. Middlesex County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is urging drivers to do the responsible thing by looking ahead, slowing down, watching for and expecting emergency vehicles and giving them space to do their job safely so they get to share the holiday season with their loved ones.
Although at times, some vehicles end up involved in collisions, there are many other drivers that travel without any issues. These drivers have their vehicles properly equipped, travel according to the weather and road conditions, drive sober and remove all distractions so they are focussed entirely on what’s going on in front of them.
Emergency workers including police, fire and ambulance will be out putting their life on the line in the adverse weather to assist motorists involved in collisions. According to the Highway Traffic Act, drivers on the same side of the road approaching stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights must slow down and proceed with caution, or if the highway has two or more lanes, the driver in the same or adjacent lane must move to another lane if safe to do so. Failure to move over for emergency vehicles can result in a fine of $490. Police are also asking motorists to proceed with caution around tow truck operators or any other vehicle on the side of the road because it is the safe thing to do.