Municipal Police Officers' Education and Training Commission (MPOETC) Act 120 Practice Exam

What should you do when an emergency response vehicle is passing?

1. Move to the adjacent lane

2. Pass in a lane not adjacent to that of the emergency response area if possible

3. Wait for the emergency vehicle to pass before moving

4. Speed up to clear the way

The correct answer is: Pass in a lane not adjacent to that of the emergency response area if possible

When an emergency response vehicle is passing, the appropriate action is to pass in a lane not adjacent to that of the emergency response area if possible. This is crucial for maintaining safety on the road. By moving to a non-adjacent lane, drivers create a safer environment for both themselves and the emergency personnel who are responding to an incident. This practice minimizes the risk of collisions, as it provides a clear path for the emergency vehicle while reducing contact with vehicles in the immediate vicinity. Adhering to this guidance is not only a matter of courtesy but is often codified in state laws regarding yielding to emergency vehicles. While it is important to allow for the safe passage of emergency vehicles, moving to an adjacent lane can sometimes lead to confusion or increased danger if there are multiple vehicles attempting to maneuver similarly. Waiting for the emergency vehicle to pass can also create delays and contribute to congestion. Speeding up to clear the way is generally unsafe, as it may increase the risk of accidents and hinder the emergency vehicle’s ability to reach its destination quickly.