With emergency vehicle drivers reporting a frustrating increase in other motorists hindering their progress, road safety charity the Institute of Advanced Motorists (IAM) is dishing out some common-sense advice on how to react when faced with blue lights in your rear view mirror.
Peter Rodger, Chief Examiner for the IAM, said: "Loud sirens and flashing blue lights cause many motorists to panic, mainly because drivers are not routinely taught how to respond to them. Emergency vehicle drivers want you to help them reach the emergency at hand as quickly as possible. Behave calmly, legally, safely and predictably and move out of the way as soon as it is safe to do so to facilitate their route."
Falling for the temptation to panic not only adds to the delay for the emergency vehicle, warns the IAM, but could also be potentially dangerous. They advise motorists who find themselves in the situation stay cool and allow an extra few seconds to plan the next move. Turn off the radio to help concentration and erase any distractions, and be sure to check where the emergency vehicle is indicating.The IAM advises motorists to find a safe place to pull over and stop, even if the emergency vehicle is approaching on the other side of the road, using indicators if necessry while bearing in mind the need to avoid confusing other motorists. Pulling over onto verges or kerb is not advised. Verges can have hidden dangers, while mounting the kerb poses a potential hazard to pedestrians.
It is important to understand the law, and regardless of good intentions ignoring a red light or bus lane to make way for an emergency vehicle - unless directed to by a police officer, of course - could lead to a fine.
Finally, the IAM calls on drivers to stay alert. One emergency vehicle is often followed swiftly by another so be sure to look and listen before deciding it is safe to continue with your journey.
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