Operating Emergency Vehicles
- 1/30If you’re operating an emergency vehicle with sirens
Emergency vehicles using flashing lights and sirens may exceed speed limits and ignore red lights when safe to do so.
When the blue light is activated
Drivers must pull over or make room when an emergency vehicle approaches with blue lights flashing.
At intersections during emergency response
Emergency vehicles can proceed through intersections if sirens and blue lights are active.
If you operate without flashing lights
Emergency vehicle drivers must comply with standard rules if not using sirens/lights.
When overtaking traffic during an emergency
Emergency vehicles may pass on the left or right depending on traffic and road conditions.
If responding in heavy traffic
Emergency vehicles are permitted to use the shoulder for bypassing congestion.
When passing a red traffic signal
Sirens and lights must be on, and the driver must yield to any conflicting traffic.
If you’re driving an ambulance under Code 95
Ambulance drivers need a valid C1 license with Code 95 for professional operation.
When lights and sirens are used together
Both must be used simultaneously to claim right-of-way over other road users.
At uncontrolled crossings
Emergency vehicles must slow down, observe traffic from all directions, and yield if necessary before proceeding through intersections without traffic control.
If sirens are malfunctioning
Without functional visual and audio signals blue lights and sirens, emergency vehicles lose their legal right to override normal traffic rules.
When visibility is low
Poor visibility due to fog, rain, or nighttime conditions increases crash risk, even for priority vehicles extra scanning and slower speeds are necessary.
At roundabouts during emergencies
Emergency vehicles with active signals can bypass yield rules at roundabouts, but only after ensuring it is safe to enter and continue.
If responding to a life-threatening case
In critical medical or life-threatening emergencies, traffic laws may be overridden and but only if done responsibly and without endangering others.
When refueling during a call
Fuel is urgently needed during an active call, the stop must be fast, pre-approved, and not interfere with the timely completion of the emergency task.
If responding with multiple units
Multiple emergency vehicles must coordinate routes and arrival times via radio to avoid traffic conflicts, crashes, or miscommunication.
At railroad crossings
All emergency vehicles must stop, look, and listen at railway crossings regardless of active signals to prevent deadly train collisions.
When returning from an emergency
Once the emergency call is completed, all exemptions end and the vehicle must operate like any other road user.
If transporting patients under lights
Abrupt acceleration, hard braking, or sharp turns can harm patients being treated or transported and smooth control is crucial.
When passing cyclists or pedestrians
Vulnerable road users may be startled or unaware and use horns, visual signals, and slow down to ensure their safety.
At narrow bridges or tunnels
Emergency vehicles can override flow in one-lane tunnels or bridges if needed but must signal and proceed cautiously.
If another emergency vehicle is ahead
Tailgating or overlapping siren use can confuse traffic coordination ensures efficient and safe response.
When reaching urban residential zones
In residential areas, minimize noise when possible and lights may be sufficient if roads are clear and response time isn’t compromised.
If driving at night
Many emergency vehicles auto-dim lights to prevent blinding other drivers at night, improving safety for all road users.
When using GPS or navigation aids
Emergency drivers must use voice commands or mounted displays holding devices while driving is a traffic violation and distraction.
At accident scenes
Position the vehicle to shield injured people and responders from oncoming traffic while maintaining access for other responders.
When rerouted by traffic control
Normally, all reroutes must be followed, but drivers may override only if the detour would prevent timely life-saving aid.
If the vehicle is not properly maintained
Emergency vehicles must pass inspection and remain roadworthy a mechanical fault means it cannot be used and even during a call.
When exiting from emergency routes
After completing emergency response, resume standard driving behavior and watch for vehicles reacting to your return to traffic.
If engaged in non-urgent transport
Lights and sirens are restricted to active emergencies using them without valid need is illegal and confuses other drivers.