Learn the New 2022 Highway Code Rule on Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles

Giving way to an emergency vehicle

Picture the scene; you’re stopped at a red light and look up at your rearview mirror, only to see blue flashing lights followed by the sound of sirens. An emergency vehicle is approaching fast and you need to give way. What do you do? We’ve all seen it happen before.

Often, drivers panic and pull over anywhere to get out of the way. But following the new Highway Code rule, you must avoid carrying out unsafe actions as a driver, or you might face a fine of up to £1000.

What do the new driving rules prevent me from doing?

Pulling into a bus lane

Pulling into a clear bus lane or stopping at a bus stop can impede the progress of the emergency vehicle and delay its arrival at the scene, cause congestion and block other traffic from getting through and can be quite dangerous for pedestrians and cyclists who may be using the bus lane.

Buses have priority over other traffic in bus lanes, so if you pull into a bus lane, you will be breaking the law and may be subject to a fine.

Running a red traffic light

Running a red light when an emergency vehicle is approaching can lead to collisions. This can not only cause damage to property, but it can also result in injuries to yourself or to other road users. For these reasons, stay behind the lines at a red traffic light and come to a complete stop when an emergency vehicle is approaching.

Finding yourself in a yellow box junction

In England, it is against the law to stop in a yellow box junction when giving way to an emergency vehicle. Yellow box junctions are marked with yellow lines painted on the road, and are typically found at busy intersections. The purpose of yellow box junctions is to keep traffic moving by preventing vehicles from blocking the intersection.

If you do stop in a yellow box junction, you may be liable for a fine.

Making an illegal turn

Making an illegal turn is a dangerous manoeuvre that may distract other road users, causing them to swerve or brake suddenly. If the turn involves crossing into oncoming traffic, you may be putting yourself at a high risk of collision.

Driving the wrong way down a one-way street

Driving in the wrong direction to make room for an emergency vehicle not only puts yourself at risk, but also other drivers and pedestrians. One-way streets are designed to keep traffic moving in a safe and efficient manner, and driving against the flow of traffic disrupts this flow.

Stopping on the brow of a hill

This obstructs the view of drivers coming down the hill, and they may not be able to see your vehicle until it is too late. It also restricts emergency vehicles from driving, especially if the road is narrow.

Mounting the kerb

By mounting the kerb, drivers are putting pedestrians, wheelchairs and pram users in danger. This is because it limits the space they have on the pavement and may result in them having to use the road.

For these reasons, it is important that drivers refrain from mounting the kerb when making room for emergency vehicles.

Putting anyone else’s life in danger

When you see a car or ambulance approaching with its flashing lights and blaring siren, it can be easy to panic. After all, it’s natural to assume that the vehicle is headed to some kind of emergency. However, it’s important to remember that not all emergencies are alike. By remaining calm and keeping your wits about you, you can help ensure that everyone stays safe on the road.

Braking harshly

Breaking harshly can cause the vehicle to skid or lose traction, making it difficult to control. Secondly, it can cause the tyres to overheat, potentially leading to a blowout. Finally, other road users may not have time to process your action which could lead to danger to both yourself and them.

If you must break due to the presence of an emergency vehicle, do so safely by reducing your speed gradually and keeping a firm grip on the steering wheel.

Keeping yourself and other road users safe

The Highway Code makes it clear that motorists should give way to vehicles with flashing lights, including police cars, fire engines, ambulances and emergency doctors. But the new laws are quite clear that when letting emergency vehicles pass, drivers must take appropriate action and continue to obey traffic laws. It’s important to note that whilst emergency vehicles appreciate drivers making room for them to pass, they don’t want you putting yourself in danger or in fault of the law.

Jas Thiara, Head of Criminal Litigation & Motoring Offences commented on the new rules. “Letting an emergency vehicle go past, doesn’t mean you are exempt from following the rules. You must continue to comply with all traffic signs and drive safely, consider other road users and of course react promptly, but never too suddenly or dangerously.”

Support with driving offences

If you need help and advice about any criminal or motoring offence issue then please contact Jas Thiara, Head of Criminal Litigation & Motoring Offences at Alsters Kelley Solicitors Ltd on 02477 710200 or email jas.thiara@alsterskelley.com.