CAA Clubs across Canada will be launching public education campaigns and events today to draw attention to the safety risks tow truck operators face. There are approximately 24 million motorists and 15,000 tow truck operators on the road annually in Canada. This leads to thousands of near misses experienced by emergency roadside operators annually and, across North America, nearly 100 tow truck drivers are killed every year after being struck by oncoming traffic while helping stranded motorists with flat tires, breakdowns and collisions.
Every tow truck driver knows the number of close calls they’ve experienced while pulled over on busy roadways. “I figured that was going to be the end, that I was going to be done,” said one CAA tow- truck operator after a near miss during a roadside assistance call.
Most provinces and territories have Slow Down Move Over legislation that mandates motorists change lanes and reduce speed to ensure the safety of emergency workers on the roadside, but it is often not observed.
Learn more about the Slow Down Move Over Day here.
About CAA
CAA is a federation of eight Clubs providing over six million Members with exceptional emergency roadside service, complete automotive and travel services, member savings and comprehensive insurance services. CAA also advocates on issues of concern to its members, including road safety, the environment, mobility, infrastructure and consumer protection.
For further comment, to book an interview or to talk to a CAA driver whose has experienced a close call, please contact:
Kristine D’Arbelles
Senior manager, Public Affairs
CAA National
613-796-9404
kdarbelles@national.caa.ca
