When an emergency vehicle is approaching while I'm driving, should I always pull over to the right and stop?
State law, and common sense, dictates that vehicles yield to emergency vehicles that are operating their emergency lights and siren. Emergency vehicle drivers are taught to pass on the left whenever possible when responding in an emergency mode. When safe, slow down, pull over to the right, and stop. However, there are circumstances where that may not be possible (if your car is already stopped, and you don't have anywhere to pull over). Simply stay put until the emergency vehicles goes around you.

If you are blocking the route of the emergency vehicle, and you are able to pull ahead and over into a clear area, use your turn signal to indicate your intentions, and proceed at a safe speed. Never slam on the brakes and stop in the middle of the road when you see apparatus approaching. Make no sudden moves. If an emergency vehicle is approaching from the opposite direction, you should pull over and stop. You have no idea if they are proceeding down the road, or are turning into a driveway or intersection right in front of you.

You are not required to slow down or pull over for emergency vehicles that are responding in the opposite direction on a divided freeway or highway. Do not tailgate, "draft", or follow a responding apparatus closely. Not only is this illegal, you run the risk of collision as vehicles pull back out into traffic after the emergency vehicle goes by.

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1. How big is the Wayzata Fire Department?
2. Is assistance from the fire department going to cost me?
3. Why can't I park in the fire lane? Obviously, if the building is on fire, I'll go move my car.
4. Can the Fire Department fill fire extinguishers?
5. What size fire extinguisher do I need for my home or business?
6. I need to get rid of some old gasoline, paint, and other hazardous waste products. Does the Fire Department take these items?
7. Why does the Fire Department respond with the North Memorial Ambulance to motor vehicle accidents?
8. Why do fire trucks respond to emergency medical calls?
9. When an emergency vehicle is approaching while I'm driving, should I always pull over to the right and stop?
10. I have noticed a "flood light" blinking at an intersection when fire trucks are approaching, what is this?
11. Why do so many fire apparatus respond to simple incidents?
12. Why do firefighters break windows and cut holes in a roof during a fire? It seems that they are causing more damage.