California DMV Permit Test (Class C)Safe Driving PracticesEasy
You are driving on a two-lane road and see an emergency vehicle approaching from behind with its lights flashing. What is your immediate and correct action?
- AIncrease your speed to clear the way quickly.
- BContinue driving at the posted speed limit until it passes.
- CCarefully move to the right edge of the road and stop.
- DSignal left and move to the left lane to give it space.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Carefully move to the right edge of the road and stop.
California law requires drivers to pull to the right edge of the road and stop when an emergency vehicle with flashing lights or sirens approaches. This ensures a clear path for the emergency vehicle to proceed safely and quickly.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Increasing speed is dangerous and illegal when an emergency vehicle is approaching.
- B. Continuing to drive impedes the emergency vehicle and is illegal.
- D. Moving left is incorrect; you must move to the right edge of the road.
Emergency Vehicle Right-of-Way
When an emergency vehicle with flashing lights or sirens approaches, drivers must yield by pulling to the right edge of the road and stopping.
- Applies to all emergency vehicles (police, fire, ambulance).
- Must pull to the right edge and stop.
- Remain stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed.
Memory trick: Lights Flash, Right Stop Dash!