Move Over and Slow Down: It’s the Law

Are there different laws for yielding the right-of-way to emergency vehicles on the interstate? In short, the answer is no.

Here’s what Indiana Code 9-21-8-35 has to say about what you are supposed to do when you encounter an emergency vehicle, such as an ambulance, police car, or fire engine.

When an Emergency Vehicle Is Approaching

If an emergency vehicle is approaching with lights and sirens on, do the following:

1. Yield the right-of-way.
2. Immediately drive to a position parallel to and as close as possible to the right-hand edge or curb of the highway, remaining clear of any intersection.
3. Stop and remain in the position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.

When an Emergency Vehicle Is Parked

If an emergency vehicle is parked with lights and sires on, do the following:

1. Yield the right-of-way by making a lane change into a lane not adjacent to that of the authorized emergency vehicle.
2. Reduce your speed by at least 10 miles per hour below the speed limit if changing lanes would be impossible or unsafe.
3. Pass with caution.

The same rules apply to a stationary recovery vehicle, utility service vehicle, or a stationary road, street, or highway maintenance vehicle, when the vehicle is displaying alternately flashing amber lights.

Always Proceed with Caution

To summarize, if there’s an emergency vehicle approaching or stopped in the roadway, slow down and move over. It’s the law.

Contact an Automobile Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of a car accident, you are urged to contact the attorneys of Wilson Kehoe Winingham. An Indianapolis car accident lawyer from WKW can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call 317.920.6400 or fill out an online contact form for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

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