Let’s assume we’re not stopped at a traffic signal.

This is only anecdotal, but I heard once that you’re not supposed to stop altogether, rather drive at a slower pace so as to let it pass quickly. The person said what was more important is that drivers don’t make sudden changes to their behavior. An EMT driver can more safely maneuver if they don’t have to predict what any one knucklehead will do the moment they get close.

If this is wrong or needs clarification, please enlighten me!

  • Moobythegoldensock@lemm.eeEnglish
    13·
    1 year ago

    The laws are set by each state. My state says:

    the driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the highway clear of any intersection and shall, if necessary to permit the safe passage of the emergency vehicle, stop and remain in such position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, unless otherwise directed by a police officer

    • DogMuffins@discuss.tchncs.deEnglish
      3·
      1 year ago

      In Australia some states say you can run a red light, others say you can’t.

      That said, in many cases it’s possible to “encroach” into the intersection to allow the vehicle to pass without crossing traffic.

      Also note that in the vast majority of cases the emergency vehicle can just go around queued traffic.

    • HeyThisIsntTheYMCA@lemmy.worldEnglish
      3·
      1 year ago

      True, but there’s the Uniform Vehicle Code which as far as I know most US states have adopted (and then modified) some version of it. I imagine most countries do something similar with their driving laws but I’m no expert.