American Safety Council Defensive Driving Practice Exam

When an emergency vehicle approaches while you are driving, the appropriate action to take is to pull over to the right side of the road. This maneuver provides a clear path for the emergency vehicle to pass safely and quickly. Emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars, often have lights and sirens to alert other drivers of their presence. By moving to the right, you not only comply with traffic laws, but you also demonstrate consideration for the urgency of their response, which can be crucial for saving lives or responding to critical situations.

Pulling over allows the emergency vehicle to navigate through traffic without any obstacles, thereby increasing the efficiency of their response. It is essential to remain still while the emergency vehicle passes, as sudden movements can create confusion or danger. In many jurisdictions, failing to yield to an emergency vehicle is a traffic violation, so understanding the proper response is vital for all drivers.