Emergency vehicles such as ambulances, fire engines and police cars may need to pass quickly when responding to incidents. Traffic by-laws require drivers to give immediate and absolute right of way to vehicles sounding sirens when necessary. When you hear or see an emergency vehicle approaching, check mirrors, signal if required, and move to the side of the road where safe to do so. Do not brake suddenly in a way that endangers traffic behind you. If you cannot move safely, maintain your position and allow the emergency vehicle to navigate around you. Never follow an emergency vehicle closely or use its presence to justify speeding or reckless driving. Emergency vehicles may stop suddenly or change direction. Your responsibility is to create space and drive predictably.
Source: Draft traffic by-law on emergency vehicle right of way.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do when I hear a siren?
Check mirrors, signal, and move aside safely to give right of way.
Can I break traffic rules to move out of the way?
No. Move only when it is safe and legal to do so.
Should I follow an ambulance that has passed me?
No. Do not tailgate or use an emergency vehicle to justify speeding.
Do emergency vehicles always have right of way?
They have priority when using sirens and lights, but drivers must still respond safely and legally.