A Saanich police vehicle damaged after being struck during a traffic stop (Photo: Saanich Police)
The Saanich Police Department is reminding the public to slow down and move over, after one of their vehicles was hit during a traffic stop last week.
An officer with the Traffic Safety Unit pulled a vehicle over in the 700-block of Vernon Avenue on Thursday.
The officer was just about to climb into his vehicle after speaking to the driver when another motorist hit his door.
Saanich police say thankfully their officer was not hurt and the only damage was to the cruiser’s door and that of the passing woman’s vehicle, and are stressing the Slow Down, Move Over law.
“[It’s] a strong reminder of how dangerous it can be for roadside workers and why every driver has a responsibility to help ensure these worker’s safety.” Said Sgt. Julie Fast, Public Information Officer for the Saanich Police in a release.
The officer had his emergency lights on and was wearing a high visibility vest during the incident.
The law came into effect in 2009 in B.C. and requires drivers who are approaching a stopped vehicle with flashing lights to slow down to either 70km/hr in an 80km/hr zone or 40km/hr in a 50km/hr zone, and on multi-laned roads to move over into another lane.
Its purpose is to protect roadside workers, including maintenance and utility workers, emergency service personnel, tow truck drivers, surveyors, garbage collectors and everyone else whose work finds them beside the road.
Drivers can face a a $173 ticket and 3 points on their driver’s license if they violate the law — or worse if they hit the vehicle or worker.
Saanich police say the driver involved in this incident received a ticket and clear direction on her responsibilities.
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