What is the correct procedure for yielding to an emergency vehicle on the cross street of a main road?

Question

If you're on a main road or non-limited access highway with no shoulders, what should you do if an emergency vehicle approaches on a side road (with a stop sign) with lights and sirens on? It seems like no one even slows down for these vehicles. My instinct is to stop before the cross street and let them in, if for nothing else but to prevent getting hit by them if they do not stop. However, that causes the people behind you to get in a bind. Several years ago I did just that, making sure that the cars behind me had plenty of room to stop (which most did just fine), but one of the cars behind me rear-ended another car. We had just left a traffic light and were only doing about 20 MPH and the emergency vehicle was CLEARLY visible and audible from the light. I assume that the vehicle that hit the other was in the wrong, but I still wonder if I did the right thing. Should I have just gone past the intersection and hoped for the best, so as not to cause a bigger problem?

Answer 1

no, if there is an emergency vehicle wanting to go through the intersection, you stop. those behind you should be paying enough attention to stop as well. otherwise you risk cutting off the EMT's and having them run into you, causing them to probably miss the call they were headed to. those people that got in a car wreck a mile away wouldn't be too happy if they go thrown out, would they?

besides, if someone behind you rear ends you, it wouldn't be your fault, but theirs. and you could sue :)

Answer 2

This just happened to my mother. The one who rear ended you is at fault (which you prb already know). Whenever you see an emrgency vehicle that should be your priority in avoiding. They are dealing with navigating traffic while trying to get an emergency somewhere as quickly and safely as possible, it's not helpful if everyone is trying to avoid causing any problems and get's in their way (whether on purpose or accident)

Answer 3

If you are unsure pull of as far as you can and stop as long as you are not dorectly impedeing the emergency vehicle

Answer 4

If possible always stop for the emergency vehicles, if you have no choice try to get through the intersection before they get there.  Your best bet is to stop or turn the corner and stop next to a curb.

Answer 5

no, once an emergency vehicle is within sight or hearing distance, you are to stop and allow them to pass. if there's no shoulder, you get over as far as you can to the right.

Answer 6

Make sure that all is clear and move over and stop...

Answer 7

heck your not responsible for the people behind you. When in doubt, just try to pull over if possible and stop from moving.

Answer 8

You are supposed to yield to ALL emergency vehicles.  I would just keep on doing what I was doing and let those people, who apparently don't understand the law, fend for themselves.

Answer 9

"You must yield the right of way to any police car, fire engine, ambulance, or other emergency vehicle using a siren and red lights. Drive as close to the right edge of the road as possible and stop until the emergency vehicle has passed. However, NEVER STOP IN AN INTERSECTION. If you are in an intersection when you see an emergency vehicle, continue through the interrsection and then drive to the right as soon as you can and stop..." "...It is against the law to follow within 300ft of any emergency vehicle which is answering an emergency call..."

Answer 10

I am not sure on the official rules. And some states have different rules. I use common sense and rules. As soon as I spot an emergency vehicle I slow down and/or come to a complete stop. I would have done exactly what you did. You have to watch the other drivers around you. I have learned over the years. Not all ppl have respect for emergency vehicles. When I teach my children to drive I teach them the same. Emergency...no matter what...flashing lights you stop or get over.

Answer 11

You did exactly the right thing.  You always yield for emergency vehicles by pulling over as much as you can and stopping.