Yielding to an Emergency Vehicle

I have received a number of e-mails from readers following the column on B.C.'s new Slow Down, Move Over law. They are concerned that some people are taking this to mean that they don't have to pull over and stop on the approach of an emergency vehicle anymore. People that they have spoken with think that it is now acceptable to slow down, move over and let the emergency vehicle pass them by. This is not correct!

When an emergency vehicle approaches that is showing a flashing red light and sounding a siren you must immediately drive to a position parallel to the nearest edge of the road that is clear of an intersection and stop. You must remain stopped until the emergency vehicle has passed by. It does not matter which direction the emergency vehicle is approaching from.

For all highways except a divided highway, the nearest edge is to the driver's right. On a divided highway, if you are in the left hand or fast lane, the nearest edge is to the left. Otherwise, it is to the right as well. In any case, use your signal lights so the driver of the emergency vehicle knows where you are going!

Beware! Emergency vehicles often travel in packs. Never pull back onto the highway to proceed without checking to be sure that all emergency vehicles have passed by.

Reference Links:

• Approach of Emergency Vehicle - Section 177 MVA