Emergency vehicles often use sirens to make their way through traffic en route to an incident. Drivers who give way to ambulances are now being cautioned that they could receive a £1000 fine for doing so.
According to rule 219 of the Highway Code, "You should look and listen for ambulances, fire engines, police, doctors or other emergency vehicles using flashing blue, red or green lights and sirens or flashing headlights, or Highways Agency Traffic Officer and Incident Support vehicles using flashing amber lights."
It also advises motorists to take measures to allow emergency vehicles to pass by taking into account their route, to not panic as the vehicle approaches, and surrounding traffic signs must be followed as you do this. If stopping is required, drivers should move to the side of the road, although they should avoid stopping before the brow of a hill, a bend, or a narrow road. Additionally, they should avoid mounting the kerb and take care not to risk other drivers, pedestrians, or themselves. Avoid breaking abruptly when approaching a roundabout or crossroads since the driver of the vehicle behind you might not have the same visibility as you do.
Confused.com's Alex Kindred, a vehicle insurance expert, discussed the law and how drivers might respond to the situation in a safe manner. He commented: “Although it comes with good intentions, driving, breaking, or manoeuvring dangerously to let an ambulance pass can be a great safety risk."
He also added: “It's important to move aside for an emergency vehicle, but try to be mindful of traffic signs and comply with the Highway Code when doing so."
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