When you’re driving and an emergency vehicle is following you at an intersection, you need to act quickly and correctly. The best action is to cross the intersection first before pulling over to give the right of way. Knowing the proper steps ensures you don’t block the path of emergency responders and helps them reach their destination swiftly.
Understanding the rules and regulations for yielding to emergency vehicles at intersections is crucial for every driver. The law mandates that vehicles must yield to police, fire department vehicles, and ambulances when they signal their approach. It’s essential to stay informed to avoid penalties and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
This is one of the questions in the LTO CDE Exam:
Question: At an intersection what should you do when an emergency vehicle is following you?
Answer: Cross the intersection first before giving the right of way
Emergency Vehicle Right of Way at Intersections
The general rule when it comes to the right of way and emergency vehicles, according to Article III, Section 43 B of the Republic Act 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, is for all drivers to yield the right of way to emergency vehicles when they signal their approach. This rule emphasizes the importance of clearing intersections swiftly and safely to avoid obstructing these vehicles and delaying emergency services from reaching their destination.
For more tips on how to deal with emergency vehicles at intersections, please see this list below:
1. Cross the Intersection First
When you notice an emergency vehicle behind you at an intersection, your immediate reaction should be to clear the intersection. This means that if there’s no way to move to the right even by a quarter of the lane, or if yielding to the right will take some time, then you can only proceed through the intersection before pulling over to give way to the emergency vehicle. After all, you wouldn’t want to obstruct the intersection and block the way of the emergency vehicles trying to navigate through traffic to reach their destination faster.
2. Avoid Making Left Turns
If an emergency vehicle approaches you from behind, refrain from making left turns. Emergency vehicles often pass on the left side and may counter-flow to bypass traffic. Making a left turn can lead to dangerous situations and impede their progress.
It’s safer to continue straight through the intersection and then pull over to the right side of the road. This action allows emergency vehicles to pass without any hindrance, ensuring they reach their destination promptly.
3. Do Not Block the Intersection
When an emergency vehicle is approaching, never stop in the middle of the intersection. Stopping in the intersection can block the path for the emergency vehicle and delay their response time. Always clear the intersection before pulling over.
Think about it this way: if the emergency vehicle were heading to or from a loved one’s home, you wouldn’t want to obstruct its way. Keeping intersections clear is crucial for the swift passage of emergency vehicles.
4. Yield from Any Direction
Emergency vehicles can approach from any direction, and it’s essential to yield regardless of where they come from. Even if they are coming from the opposite direction, make way for them. Other drivers might not move aside, forcing the emergency vehicle to navigate around them.
Always be prepared to pull over and allow the emergency vehicle to pass. This ensures that they can continue their journey without unnecessary delays or obstacles.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Failing to yield the right of way to emergency vehicles carries penalties. Drivers who do not comply can be fined PHP 1,000. This fine serves as a reminder of the importance of yielding to emergency vehicles and keeping the roads safe for everyone.
Understanding and following these rules help avoid penalties and contribute to the efficiency and safety of emergency responses. It’s a small act that can have a significant impact on saving lives.
Video: What to Do When an Emergency Vehicle Approaches?
If you need more information or even a visual reference about what you need to do when an emergency vehicle approaches, then you can use this video from Smart Drive Test to learn and prepare for your road test:
Summary
Knowing how to react when an emergency vehicle follows you at an intersection is vital. Cross the intersection first before pulling over to give the right of way. Avoid left turns and do not block the intersection. Yield from any direction to ensure the emergency vehicle can pass swiftly. These actions not only help emergency responders but also keep you and other road users safe. Always remember, the goal is to clear the path for those who save lives.