Sharing the road

School buses

Ontario school buses are chrome yellow and display the words “School Bus” (ON-RULE-073).

You must stop for a stopped school bus with upper alternating red lights flashing whether you are behind it or approaching from the front, unless a median strip applies (ON-RULE-038). Coming from behind, stop at least 20 metres away (ON-RULE-037).

Failing to stop for a school bus with red lights flashing can bring a heavy fine and six demerit points for a first offence (ON-RULE-039). Drivers who ignore school-crossing stopping rules may receive a substantial fine and three demerit points (ON-RULE-074).

Pedestrians, bikes, and streetcars

Do not pass any vehicle within 30 metres of a pedestrian crossover (ON-RULE-040). Do not pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk; it may be stopped for a pedestrian (ON-RULE-083).

When passing a cyclist, leave at least one metre where practical. Failure may add two demerit points (ON-RULE-065). A cyclist may signal a right turn by extending the right arm (ON-RULE-103). When turning right you may need to enter a bike lane only after checking it is safe (ON-RULE-104). Stop for a traffic signal behind a bike box; do not stop in the box (ON-RULE-084).

Motorcycles use a full lane (ON-RULE-096). Pass streetcars on the right unless you are on a one-way road (ON-RULE-107). At streetcar stops, stay at least two metres behind the rear doors unless there is a passenger island (ON-RULE-108).

Emergency vehicles

It is illegal to follow within 150 metres of a fire vehicle responding to an alarm (ON-RULE-066). Failing to stop or yield for an emergency vehicle can bring a fine and three demerit points for a first offence (ON-RULE-067).

On a road with two or more lanes in your direction, move into a lane away from a stopped emergency vehicle or tow truck with flashing amber lights if it is safe, reduce speed, and proceed with caution (ON-RULE-082).

Railway crossings

If a train is coming, stop at least five metres from the nearest rail or gate (ON-RULE-035). Never drive around, under, or through a railway gate while it is down, being lowered, or being raised (ON-RULE-036).

Source: Official MTO Driver's Handbook, Stopping; Sharing the road; Dealing with particular situations.