New York DMV Permit Written TestSafe Driving PracticesMedium
A driver is traveling on a two-lane road and notices an emergency vehicle with its lights flashing approaching from behind. There is no median or barrier separating the directions of traffic. What is the driver legally required to do?
- APull over to the right edge of the road and stop, yielding the right-of-way.
- BContinue driving at the speed limit, leaving room for the emergency vehicle to pass.
- CMove to the left shoulder of the road and stop.
- DSpeed up to clear the way for the emergency vehicle.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Pull over to the right edge of the road and stop, yielding the right-of-way.
New York law (and most states) requires drivers to pull over to the right edge of the road and stop when an emergency vehicle with flashing lights or sirens approaches, regardless of which direction it's coming from on a two-lane road without a barrier. This ensures a clear path for emergency responders.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Continuing to drive, even at the speed limit, does not sufficiently yield the right-of-way and can obstruct the emergency vehicle.
- C. Moving to the left shoulder would impede the emergency vehicle if it's coming from behind or create a hazard.
- D. Speeding up is dangerous and illegal when an emergency vehicle is approaching.
Yielding to Emergency Vehicles
When an emergency vehicle with flashing lights or sirens approaches, drivers must pull over to the right edge of the road and stop until the vehicle has passed.
- Applies to all emergency vehicles (police, fire, ambulance).
- Pull to the right and stop.
- Remain stopped until the vehicle has passed.
Memory trick: Lights and Sirens? Pull Right, Stop Tight!