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

When you see an emergency vehicle with flashing lights, the appropriate response is to pull over to the side of the road and stop. This action is crucial for several reasons. First, it provides a safe passage for the emergency vehicle, allowing it to respond to an incident quickly and without impediment. Emergency responders rely on other drivers to clear a path, and stopping helps ensure that they can reach their destination without delays.

Additionally, pulling over and stopping demonstrates compliance with traffic laws, as many states, including Delaware, have regulations requiring drivers to yield to emergency vehicles. This not only promotes safety for the emergency responders but also for all road users, as it reduces the risk of accidents that could occur if vehicles remain stationary in the lane while an emergency vehicle passes.

The greater context includes the understanding that speeding up, continuing as normal, or merely changing lanes without stopping does not adequately ensure the safety of the emergency personnel or the safety of others on the road. Thus, pulling over and completely stopping is the most responsible and lawful response.