BC Slow Down & Move Over Law: Emergency & Roadside Vehicles Explained

Apply BC’s posted-zone thresholds and move over only when a safe lane change is available.

Video guide

BC Slow Down & Move Over Law: Emergency & Roadside Vehicles Explained

Apply BC’s posted-zone thresholds and move over only when a safe lane change is available.

Video breakdown

Study the lesson by section

Each section below follows an explanation or demonstration in the video. Select a section to play from that point, then practise the skill with appropriate supervision.

0:00

Recognize stopped vehicles with flashing red, blue or yellow lights

BC’s rule covers stopped roadside vehicles with these flashing lights, including emergency, tow and other roadside-worker vehicles. Look ahead for the lights and people near the road so preparation begins before you reach them.

0:41

Use the 70 and 40 km/h thresholds correctly

When passing the stopped flashing-light vehicle, slow to no more than 70 km/h in a posted zone of 80 or above, or 40 km/h in a zone under 80. A lower posted limit or hazardous conditions still require a lower speed.

1:30

Move over on a multi-lane road when safe

Signal, check mirrors and the blind spot before moving to another lane to pass. If a safe lane change is unavailable, do not swerve or force a gap; slow as required and keep watching the roadside activity.

2:48

Plan early for a tow truck near an exit

The exit-ramp example shows how late recognition leaves too little time to slow or give space. Scan the exit and roadside as well as the main traffic, then make a controlled response appropriate to the posted zone and available room.

BC: Slow down and move over

Check the current official guidance alongside the video lesson.

Driving practice

Practise these skills with a driving instructor

Book a North Vancouver driving lesson with Zula and work on the skills covered in this guide.