Passing an Emergency Ambulance: Laws & Safe Practices

In most jurisdictions, it is illegal to pass an ambulance actively transporting a patient with lights and sirens activated, unless directed by law enforcement. Drivers must yield right-of-way to ensure rapid, safe transport.

Laws vary by region, but the universal safe practice is:

1. Pull over to the right.
2. Stop completely.
3. Wait until the ambulance passes.

Familiarize yourself with local traffic statutes. When in doubt, yield—it’s the safest and most legally defensible action.