Practice question

What should you do if an emergency vehicle is approaching you from behind?

  1. Immediately speed up to clear the lane
  2. Slow down and cautiously pull over to the right side of the road
  3. Stop in the middle of the road
  4. Ignore the emergency vehicle

Answer: B — Slow down and cautiously pull over to the right side of the road

When an emergency vehicle is approaching from behind, the appropriate action is to slow down and cautiously pull over to the right side of the road. This allows the emergency vehicle to pass safely and quickly. Pulling over not only clears the way for the emergency vehicle but also ensures the safety of everyone on the road, including pedestrians and other drivers. It's crucial to perform this maneuver safely; you should check your mirrors and signal if necessary, ensuring that the path is clear before moving to the side. Speeding up in an attempt to clear the lane can often create a more dangerous situation by increasing the likelihood of an accident, while stopping in the middle of the road obstructs the emergency vehicle's path. Ignoring the emergency vehicle altogether is not only unsafe but also legally wrong, as it can delay the response to emergencies, potentially putting lives at risk.

Practice more: Steer Clear State Farm Safe Driver Practice Test →