Operating Emergency Vehicles
- 1/20If you are 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 are 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.
If sirens are malfunctioning
Without functional visual and audio signals, 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; 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.
If responding to a life-threatening case
In critical emergencies, traffic laws may be overridden but only if done responsibly and without endangering others.
When refueling during a call
If fuel is urgently needed, the stop must be fast, pre-approved, and not interfere with the emergency task.
If responding with multiple units
Multiple emergency vehicles must coordinate routes and arrival times via radio to avoid traffic conflicts.
At railroad crossings
All emergency vehicles must stop, look, and listen at railway crossings regardless of active signals.
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 smooth control is crucial.
When passing cyclists or pedestrians
Vulnerable road users may be startled use horns, visual signals, and slow down to ensure safety.