What should you do if an emergency vehicle approaches while you are driving?

When an emergency vehicle approaches, the appropriate action is to pull over to the right side of the road and come to a complete stop. This maneuver allows the emergency vehicle to safely pass without obstruction, prioritizing the urgent needs of the situation it is responding to. By moving to the right and stopping, you are demonstrating your awareness and cooperation with traffic laws, which aim to facilitate the movement of emergency services.

In many states, including North Carolina, this action is not just encouraged; it is often mandated by law. Failing to do so can result in legal penalties. It’s important to remain stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed and it is safe to re-enter traffic, helping to ensure road safety for all users.

The other options would not effectively clear the path for the emergency vehicle. Speeding up could create further hazards and is still considered obstructive behavior. Stopping in the middle of the road poses a significant risk of accidents, while continuing to drive normally would directly interfere with the emergency vehicle’s passage.