What should you do if an emergency vehicle approaches with lights flashing?

When an emergency vehicle approaches with its lights flashing, the appropriate response is to pull over to the right side of the road and stop. This action is crucial for several reasons. It ensures that the emergency vehicle has a clear path to reach its destination promptly, which can be vital in situations where time is critical, such as responding to an accident or a medical emergency.

Pulling over and stopping minimizes any potential hazards on the road, as it allows emergency responders to maneuver safely. In many jurisdictions, including Illinois, it is a legal requirement to yield to emergency vehicles when they are using their lights and sirens, emphasizing the importance of this action.

Continuing to drive at normal speed, speeding up to create distance, or signaling the driver to pass are all inappropriate responses that can lead to dangerous situations, including obstructing the emergency vehicle's path or causing confusion or accidents on the road. Therefore, pulling over to the right and stopping is the safest and most responsible choice to ensure the safety of all road users.