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

When you encounter an emergency vehicle with flashing lights, pulling over to the side of the road and stopping is the appropriate action to take. This practice is crucial for the safety of both the emergency personnel and other road users. By moving to the side, you create a clear path for the emergency vehicle, allowing it to respond swiftly to the situation at hand without delays caused by traffic congestion.

This action also demonstrates respect for the law, as many jurisdictions have specific laws requiring drivers to yield to emergency vehicles. Stopping helps in preventing potential accidents that could occur if drivers continue to move as usual around an active emergency scene.

Other actions, such as speeding up or continuing to drive normally, can create hazards and impede the progress of the emergency responders. Sounding your horn is not an appropriate response and can lead to confusion or panic, rather than helping to clear the way. Thus, pulling over and stopping is the safest and most responsible choice.