When an emergency vehicle with its siren and/or lights on approaches, what should all traffic do?

When an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren and lights activated, all traffic should slow down, pull to the right side of the road, and stop. This action is essential for several reasons.

First, pulling to the right provides a clear path for the emergency vehicle to pass, allowing first responders to reach their destination quickly and safely. This is critical in emergencies where every second counts, such as when responding to medical emergencies, fires, or law enforcement calls.

Additionally, slowing down and stopping demonstrates cautious driving behavior, which is crucial in maintaining safety for all road users, including pedestrians and other vehicles. By following this procedure, drivers are also complying with traffic laws that require them to yield to emergency vehicles.

In contrast, speeding up could increase the risk of accidents as drivers may not be able to react appropriately to surrounding traffic or obstacles. Simply pulling to the left side of the road may not be effective, especially on multi-lane roads, where staying in the lane could obstruct the emergency vehicle’s path. Continuing at the same speed ignores the presence of the emergency vehicle and can lead to dangerous situations. Therefore, the correct procedure ensures both legal compliance and enhanced safety on the roads.