How should you respond to an emergency vehicle with flashing lights?

When you encounter an emergency vehicle with flashing lights, the appropriate response is to pull over to the right side of the road and stop. This action allows the emergency responders to pass safely and quickly reach their destination, which is often critical in emergency situations.

By moving to the right side and coming to a complete stop, you ensure that the vehicle has a clear path to maneuver, as well as minimize any potential confusion or hazards that might arise if vehicles remain in motion. This not only demonstrates safe driving behavior but also shows respect for the urgency of the emergency personnel’s work, which can make a significant difference in the outcome of emergencies.

Other choices may lead to unsafe situations; for instance, speeding up to pass could cause confusion and increase the risk of accidents, while ignoring the emergency vehicle could prevent it from being able to navigate through traffic efficiently. Moving to the left lane might obstruct the emergency vehicle if it's not feasible or safe, especially in a situation where it needs to access the nearest curb or path of least resistance to continue on its route.