Operating Emergency Vehicles
- 1/14If you are operating an emergency vehicle
Only drivers with proper authorization and specialized emergency response training are allowed to operate vehicles under emergency conditions, ensuring safety and compliance.
When responding with lights and sirens
Emergency vehicle drivers can exceed speed limits only when responding to emergencies, and only if road conditions allow safe control without endangering others.
At red lights or stop signs
Even during emergencies, drivers must yield to existing traffic conditions, proceeding cautiously to prevent collisions.
If other drivers do not yield
Approaching hazardous areas, accident scenes, or congested roads, reducing speed is critical to maintaining safety for all road users.
When using sirens and flashing lights
Emergency responders must plan their route to avoid unnecessary risks and continuously alert other drivers using lights, sirens, or signals.
If the road is congested
Emergency lanes can be used by authorized vehicles when necessary, but only when it is safe, legal, and does not put others in danger.
At pedestrian crossings or school zones
Emergency driving requires controlled speeds; rushing recklessly can lead to accidents, negating the purpose of the emergency response.
If responding in poor weather or low visibility
Lowering speed while activating all emergency lights increases visibility and ensures other road users can react appropriately.
When arriving at a crash or fire scene
Emergency vehicles must be positioned to shield accident victims from traffic while also providing access for rescue teams.
If a vehicle is blocking your path
Aggressive overtaking endangers everyone on the road. Emergency drivers must overtake only when it is safe and after alerting surrounding traffic.
When operating a police or rescue motorcycle
Flashers and sirens warn other drivers of approaching emergency vehicles, allowing them to yield and clear the path safely.
When driving to or from a hospital with a patient
Abrupt steering or braking can cause secondary accidents. Smooth driving ensures patient and responder safety during emergencies.
At railway crossings during response
Even during emergencies, vehicles must fully stop at railway crossings to avoid catastrophic collisions with trains.
If your vehicle becomes disabled during response
An emergency vehicle is disabled or stuck, activating hazard lights and notifying dispatch ensures that help is sent and other drivers are warned.