Demerit point rules expanded to cover 'work-related vehicles' when passing stopped emergency or tow-truck situations

Plain-language summary · AI-assisted

Three upcoming changes to Ontario's demerit point table will take effect together in 2027. First, two existing demerit point offences related to failing to slow down or move over for stopped vehicles will be expanded so that 'work-related vehicles' are included alongside emergency vehicles and tow trucks — meaning drivers must also slow/move over for stopped work-related vehicles or risk demerit points. Second, a section reference in one of those offence entries is being corrected to point to the proper subsection of the Highway Traffic Act. Drivers who pass stopped vehicles on Ontario roads should be aware that the 'slow down, move over' demerit rules will apply to a broader category of vehicles once these changes come into force. Fleet operators and commercial drivers in particular should review how they communicate this obligation to drivers.

Who this affects
Ontario drivers · commercial fleet operators · trucking and towing companies · employers with work-related vehicles on roadways