Practice question

What should you do when you see an emergency vehicle with lights flashing?

  1. Speed up to get out of the way
  2. Slow down and move over if safe to do so
  3. Ignore it and continue driving
  4. Stop immediately in your lane

Answer: B — Slow down and move over if safe to do so

When you see an emergency vehicle with its lights flashing, the correct response is to slow down and move over if it is safe to do so. This action enhances the safety of both the emergency personnel and other road users. Moving over creates a buffer zone for emergency vehicles, allowing them to operate more effectively and without obstruction. Slowing down also helps you maintain control of your vehicle while assessing the situation, reducing the risk of accidents. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and ensure that moving over does not endanger anyone else on the road. This practice is not only a courteous action but is also often mandated by law in many states, putting emphasis on the shared responsibility for road safety.

Practice more: Massachusetts Fines and Limits Permit Practice Test →