What should you do when you hear or see an emergency vehicle approaching?

When you hear or see an emergency vehicle approaching, pulling over to the right side of the road and stopping is the correct course of action. This maneuver allows the emergency vehicle to pass safely and quickly, ensuring they can reach their destination without delay. It creates a clear path, which is crucial because emergency responders may need to navigate through traffic rapidly in situations where every second counts.

Stopping on the right side also enhances the safety of all road users, as it reduces the likelihood of collisions. By halting your vehicle in a stationary position, you minimize the risk of confusing other drivers as well. This action is mandated by traffic laws in many jurisdictions to ensure cooperative behavior among road users when an emergency vehicle is present.

Other options, such as speeding up or maintaining your current speed, pose significant risks by adding confusion and potential hazards on the road. Stopping in the middle of the road could obstruct the emergency vehicle and create dangerous situations with other vehicles trying to navigate the emergency response. Therefore, pulling over to the right side and stopping is both a legal requirement and a critical safety practice when responding to emergency vehicles.