Everyone deserves a safe place to work

MPP Garfield Dunlop introduces Private Member's Bill

TORONTO, March 5, 2012 /CNW/ - It's the law to slow down and move over if you are approaching a stopped police cruiser, fire truck or ambulance along the highway with its red or blue lights flashing. Tow trucks should be added to that list.

Today, Simcoe North MPP Garfield Dunlop will introduce his Private Member's Bill, the Highway Traffic Amendment Act (Roadside Assistance Vehicles), 2012.

Dunlop's Bill would amend the Highway Traffic Act, Section 159 (2) & (3) to include tow truck operators and police department vehicles with flashing amber lights to the current list of roadside assistance vehicles.

"A simple amendment to Ontario's Highway Traffic Act will help protect the 4,500 tow truck operators in Ontario like similar legislation in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba and thirty-nine US states," said Dunlop.

"Everyone deserves a safe place to work. That is why CAA is calling for changes to the Highway Traffic Act," said Nick Parks, President and CEO, CAA South Central Ontario. "Including tow truck operators in the Slow Down, Move Over Legislation will recognize the dangers these drivers face every day and will help prevent crashes on Ontario highways, reduce injuries and save lives."

In January of this year, a 49-year-old tow truck operator was struck and killed by a car while changing a tire along the side of Highway 3 in Windsor. Busy highways can be a dangerous place to work. This tragic incident highlights the need for the Highway Traffic Act to be amended in order to better protect tow truck drivers on the job.

"I hope that all parties will support me on this very important safety initiative, which will provide the protection that these workers deserve," added Dunlop.

Silvana Aceto
Media and PR Specialist
CAA SCO
Office: [phone]
Cell: [phone]

Garfield Dunlop
MPP Simcoe North
Cell: [phone]