What should you do when an emergency vehicle with flashing lights approaches?

When an emergency vehicle with flashing lights approaches, the appropriate action is to pull over to the right side of the road and stop. This response is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that the emergency vehicle can pass through quickly without obstruction, which is vital in situations where time is critical, such as responding to a fire or medical emergency.

Additionally, pulling over allows you to create a clear lane for the emergency vehicle. This is not only considerate but also often a legal requirement in many jurisdictions. Staying attentive and prepared to resume driving once it is safe further enhances overall road safety.

In contrast, accelerating to get out of the way is dangerous and could lead to an accident or impede the emergency vehicle’s response time. Continuing to drive as usual could obstruct the path of the emergency vehicle, causing unnecessary delays. Turning off your headlights is unnecessary and could reduce your visibility, making it harder for the emergency personnel to see you, which could lead to further complications on the road.