Tuesday, May 9, 2023, is CAA Saskatchewan Slow Down Move Over Day, a special day of safety in observance and recognition of tow truck operators and first responders working on our highways, including police officers, paramedics, firefighters, highway patrol staff, and construction workers. The second Tuesday in May annually, has been designated as CAA Saskatchewan Slow Down Move Over Day to bring attention to this important safety issue.

To heighten public awareness and education regarding safety for tow truck operators, first responders assisting motorists and construction workers on our highways, CAA Saskatchewan’s Slow Down Move Over 60 second and 15 second video messages are scheduled from May 9 to May 31, to serve as a safety reminder for Victoria Day long weekend road trip travellers. These safety messages are posted on CAA Saskatchewan’s social media channels and on the motor club’s website.

CAA’s 60 second video message features community safety partners Chief Randy Schulz, White City Fire Department; Brad Stratychuk, President, Roadside Responders Association; Keith Woytiuk, President of the Paramedic Services Chiefs of Saskatchewan; and Cst. Victoria Nicholls with RCMP “F” Division Traffic Services. The 15 second video message serves as a testimonial from Chief Randy Schulz. CAA thanks our safety partners for helping to emphasize the importance of Slow Down Move Over Day.

“On a daily basis, we’re reminded of the dangers of our profession as first responders working to help motorists in need on Saskatchewan roads,” said Peter Kreis, vice-president, operations, CAA Saskatchewan. “Motorists must respect tow truck operators, who are working to help keep them safe. At the end of their shifts, they just want to return home to their loved ones. This is an important safety message to apply not just today, but every day."

Photo credit: Lona Gervais

Dave Wiwchar, a CAA Saskatchewan Roadside Assistance Fleet Manager, shared his experience of picking up a Member’s Ford F-150 on Highway 1 between Regina and Grand Coulee. “I had the Member get out of the truck and stand in the ditch while I picked up his vehicle,” recalls Wiwchar. “After securing the passenger side, I went around to the driver’s side to do the same. As I was doing this, a semi came very close. The wind drag from the semi blew me over onto the pavement. The Member came running around the truck as he thought I got struck.”

It's the law to slow down to 60 km/h for tow truck operators and first responders working on our Saskatchewan highways. Please respect their workspace and move over when it’s safe to do so.

For further information, contact:

Lona Gervais
Senior Communications Specialist
CAA Saskatchewan
306.515.4359
lona.gervais@caask.ca