What to do when EMERGENCY vehicles approach

During our day to day drive we can often encounter emergency vehicles (Police, Ambulance and fire brigade) with their sirens blasting and flashing lights on. What do I do? This is something that a lot of people are probably thinking when it’s all too late. This unfortunately causes panic and delays the emergency vehicles from where they need to be. Following this easy guide you will know what to do next time you encounter an emergency vehicle with its lights and siren on.

Stay calm

While driving you should always be aware of your surroundings and checking your mirrors regularly. When you see or hear an emergency vehicle approaching stay calm and don’t panic. Consider the vehicle route and take appropriate actions to safety move out of the their path.

Move to the Left

Move to the left if safe to do so and slow down to allow the vehicle to pass. If you are unable to move left safety, maintain your current position and allow the emergency vehicle to overtake you. Avoid stopping at the crest of a hill, bend or narrow section of the road. If stopped at a traffic light on a dual carriage way, vehicles in the left lane should move left and vehicles in the right lane should move right allowing emergency vehicles room in the middle to get through.

Avoid abrupt manoeuvres and braking

While moving out of the way of the emergency vehicle you should avoid any heavy braking or abrupt manoeuvres. Other drivers may have failed to see the approaching vehicle. Doing so you put yourself and other motorists at risk of an accident.

Always give way to Emergency Services 

You must always give way to emergency vehicles sounding a siren or displaying flashing blue and red lights, it’s the law. This applies when you are at a green light and an emergency vehicle is stopped at red light with its lights and sirens on. This may mean coming to a stop at a green light to allow the vehicle to safely proceed through the intersection before proceeding yourself. Other situations may include but not limited to roundabouts and signed intersections.

Follow the road rules

Failing to move out of the path or moving into the path of an emergency vehicle can leave you with a hefty fine of $304 and 3 demerit points. The laws in Queensland do allow you to drive onto the wrong side of the road or drive through a red traffic light to get out of the way of an emergency vehicle BUT only if it is safe to do so. Giving way to emergency vehicles should always be done with care but the safety of yourself and other road users should be a priority.

If you do find yourself involved in a traffic accident, don’t hesitate to call us at Quicktow to put your mind at ease. We are here to help you get your vehicle  to safety where it can be repaired.