Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles Permit Practice Test

What is required when you see a stationary emergency vehicle with flashing lights?

1. Speed past the emergency vehicle

2. Slow down and move to a lane that is not adjacent

3. Ignore the emergency vehicle

4. Stop immediately in the lane

The correct answer is: Slow down and move to a lane that is not adjacent

When approaching a stationary emergency vehicle that has its flashing lights activated, the best practice is to slow down and, if safe, move to a lane that is not adjacent to the emergency vehicle. This action helps ensure the safety of both the emergency personnel attending to the situation and the driver themselves. By changing lanes and reducing speed, drivers create a safer environment, allowing emergency responders to perform their duties without the risk of being struck by passing vehicles. Maintaining a safe distance and reducing speed provides additional time to react to any unforeseen circumstances that may arise while the emergency personnel are working. This is particularly important in environments like roadside emergencies, where distracted or careless driving can lead to tragic consequences. Many states have laws that specifically require drivers to take these precautionary measures when approaching emergency vehicles to protect both the responders and other road users.