What must drivers do when they see an emergency vehicle with lights flashing?

When drivers see an emergency vehicle with lights flashing, they must yield and move to the right side of the road. This action is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, moving to the right side allows the emergency vehicle to pass safely and quickly, ensuring that first responders can reach their destination without unnecessary delays. This is often critical in situations where seconds can make a significant difference, such as responding to accidents, medical emergencies, or fire calls.

Additionally, yielding helps prevent accidents. When drivers do not make room for emergency vehicles, they could create potential hazards for both the emergency responders and other road users. By pulling to the right and, when safe, coming to a complete stop, drivers are following the law and demonstrating consideration for public safety.

It’s also important to recognize that drivers in adjacent lanes may need to exercise caution as well, but the fundamental requirement for those in the lane nearest the emergency vehicle is to yield and make space. This ensures a safe passage for emergency responders who may need to navigate through traffic.