Obey police. When police officers are directing traffic, you must follow their directions, even if the directions are different from traffic lights or signs.
When a police officer signals you to pull your vehicle over, you must pull over as far to the right as you safely can and come to a complete stop. Stay in your vehicle and wait for the police officer.
You must immediately, upon the police officer's request, surrender your driver's licence, vehicle permit (or copy) and insurance. Contrary to popular belief, you do not have 24 hours to present these documents.
If you do not obey a police officer's direction to pull over, you risk being fined, having your licence suspended or even serving time in prison.
Traffic law enforcement is shared among different levels of government. Federal, provincial, and municipal police forces all have authority to enforce traffic laws on Ontario's roads. This includes the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and local municipal police services.
Police officers may set up roadside checkpoints to check for impaired drivers, proper licensing, vehicle registration, and insurance. These checkpoints are legal and you must comply with officer requests. Refusing to cooperate at a checkpoint can result in charges and penalties.
When emergency vehicles (police, fire, ambulance) are approaching with lights and sirens, you must immediately pull to the right side of the road and stop. Allow the emergency vehicle to pass safely before resuming travel. Never try to follow an emergency vehicle or use their path to get through traffic.
If you are stopped for a traffic violation, remain calm and courteous. Keep your hands visible, usually on the steering wheel. Provide the requested documents promptly. You may receive a ticket, warning, or other penalty depending on the violation. If you disagree with the charge, you can contest it in court rather than arguing with the officer.
Understand that police officers have a difficult and dangerous job. They deal with traffic enforcement to protect public safety, not to inconvenience drivers. Cooperation and courtesy make the interaction safer and more pleasant for everyone involved.
Follow police directions even if different from signs/signals
Pull over as far right as safely possible when signaled
Come to complete stop and stay in vehicle
Immediately provide licence, permit, and insurance when requested
No 24-hour grace period for document production