What should a driver do upon encountering an emergency vehicle with flashing lights?

When a driver encounters an emergency vehicle with flashing lights, the appropriate action is to pull over to the right and stop. This allows the emergency vehicle to pass safely and promptly. Emergency responders, such as police cars, ambulances, or fire trucks, need to reach their destinations as quickly as possible to assist in emergencies, and giving them a clear path is critical for public safety.

Pulling over to the right ensures that the emergency vehicle can maneuver through traffic efficiently. Stopping also minimizes the risk of an accident or confusion on the road, as other drivers are likely to follow suit in yielding to the emergency vehicle.

Driving faster to clear the road is dangerous, as it can create more hazards, not just for the driver but for the emergency responders. Reducing speed while continuing to drive does not provide the necessary clearance. Ignoring the emergency vehicle altogether poses a serious risk and is against traffic laws in many jurisdictions. Permit all emergency vehicles—especially those with lights and sirens—to proceed unimpeded by adhering to the correct action of stopping to the right.