Illinois Driving Permit Practice Test

What should you do when an emergency vehicle approaches using its siren and lights?

1. Continue driving at the same speed

2. Change lanes to the left

3. Immediately pull to the right

4. Stop wherever you are

The correct answer is: Immediately pull to the right

When an emergency vehicle approaches with its siren and lights activated, the correct action is to immediately pull to the right side of the roadway. This response is crucial to ensure that the emergency vehicle can pass safely and swiftly. By moving to the right, you create a clear and unobstructed path for the emergency personnel to navigate through traffic, which is essential in situations where time is critical, such as responding to an accident or medical emergency. This action not only helps the emergency vehicle but also complies with traffic laws that prioritize the movement of emergency responders. While stopping wherever you are might seem reasonable, it could potentially block the path of the emergency vehicle, creating hazards for all road users. Continuing to drive at the same speed or changing lanes without pulling over could also impede the emergency vehicle's response, and are not appropriate actions in this scenario.