An impactful PSA created by CAA. Remembering to Slow Down, Move Over is key to keeping tow truck operators and other roadside workers safe. | VIDEO: COURTESY OF CAA
A Reminder to Slow Down, Move Over
Many drivers remain unaware of this law of the road. Here’s how you can take action to help roadside workers stay safe.
By Lisa Gordon
Every day, tow trucks deployed by CAA respond to Manitoba motorists who need help. For those drivers who provide roadside assistance, their workplace is the side of the road — from unpaved country lanes to provincial highways — and their safety is paramount. This is underscored by the recent deaths of tow truck operators who have been struck by passing cars in other provinces. That’s why CAA Manitoba has been a longtime supporter of the Slow Down, Move Over (SDMO) law, which has been part of Manitoba’s Highway Traffic Act since 2011.
“The law is designed to slow traffic when an emergency or roadside event is happening,” explains Ewald Friesen, manager, government and community relations for CAA Manitoba. “We know from experience that many people don’t respond to a towing situation on the side of the road, [which can make things] quite precarious.”
To help motorists understand and comply with the SDMO law, Manitoba recognizes the need for precise speed limits. When approaching a parked emergency response vehicle or tow truck, the law instructs drivers to slow down to 40 km/h in zones where the maximum speed is less than 80 km/h. When travelling on roads where the speed limit is higher than 80 km/h, they must reduce their speed to 60 km/h.
In cases where multiple lanes are travelling in the same direction, “you must also move over into that next lane when it’s safe to do so,” continues Friesen. “If you can’t move over, the key is to slow down. “Everyone has a right to a safe workplace, and the SDMO law is about safety for everyone,” explains Friesen. “People understand the importance of slowing down and moving over; however, there is a gap between perception and behaviour.” Friesen cites a 2025 CAA Member survey, where 80 percent of Members had heard of the Slow Down, Move Over law and 99 percent supported it. However, just over half of respondents were aware of the correct driver behaviour, and more than one-third were unfamiliar with the penalties associated with not adhering to the law.
“In cases where multiple lanes are travelling in the same direction, you must also move over into that next lane when it’s safe to do so. If you can’t move over, the key is to slow down.”
The proper Slow Down, Move Over procedure. | ILLUSTRATION: FLATVECTOR/ADOBE STOCK
Friesen says that CAA Manitoba continues to advocate for additional measures that will improve roadside safety for tow truck operators. Efforts came to fruition on January 1, 2026, when Bill 38 (The Highway Traffic Amendment Act) took effect, allowing tow truck operators to place traffic cones and signs to divert traffic around an active work site.
Currently, CAA Manitoba is asking the provincial government to consider allowing the use of variable message signs — digital signboards placed on top of tow trucks with illuminated directional arrows. The club is also advocating for additional measures, including the use of different coloured lighting. Currently, only amber lights are permitted.
Blue light, for example, is more eye-catching on the road. “It makes drivers slow down,” explains Friesen, adding that policymakers in Saskatchewan and Alberta have authorized different light colours to help create better visibility, particularly in low light or inclement weather conditions, and have found them to be effective. Other efforts by CAA include boosting education and awareness. Last year, that resulted in the province designating a date as Slow Down, Move Over Day in recognition of the SDMO law.
Friesen says the recent deaths of tow truck operators in other provinces have highlighted the hazardous work they do.
“Long before fatalities, you have injuries and near misses. Road safety is ultimately everyone’s responsibility, and CAA is committed to improving workplace safety for these drivers.” CAA
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