Emergency Awareness and Response

Driver action when an emergency vehicle with flashing lights approaches from any direction.

Pull over to the shoulder and stop immediately.: When an emergency vehicle with flashing lights approaches, drivers must pull over to the shoulder and stop. This action allows the emergency vehicle to pass safely and quickly, which is crucial in time-sensitive situations.

Required action when an emergency vehicle or tow truck is stopped with its lights flashing.

Reduce speed and move into a lane away from the vehicle if possible.: When encountering a stopped emergency vehicle or tow truck with flashing lights, drivers should reduce their speed and, if possible, move into an adjacent lane.

Consequences for failing to respond to an emergency vehicle with flashing lights and sirens.

A fine, demerit points, and possible jail time for additional offenses.: Failing to respond to an emergency vehicles lights and sirens is a serious offense. A first offense can result in a substantial fine and three demerit points on your license. Subsequent offenses may lead to increased fines and potential jail time.

First action if your brakes fail while driving.

Pump the brake pedal to restore hydraulic pressure.: If your brakes fail, the first action should be to pump the brake pedal. This action may help to rebuild hydraulic pressure in the braking system, potentially restoring braking function.

Recommended course of action if your gas pedal sticks.

Shift to neutral and stop as soon as possible.: If the gas pedal sticks, shifting the car into neutral is the safest initial response. Attempting to lift the pedal with your hands is dangerous, and continuing to drive or turning off the ignition immediately can lead to loss of control.

Action if your headlights go out while driving at night.

Check the switch and if needed, pull over to a safe stop.: If your headlights fail at night, it is crucial to pull over to a safe location as soon as possible. Driving with hazard lights provides some visibility but does not adequately illuminate the road ahead.

Safest action to take if you experience trouble on a freeway.

Pull over to the nearest shoulder and turn on your hazard lights.: If you encounter trouble on a freeway, the safest course of action is to pull over to the shoulder as soon as it is safe to do so. Activating your hazard lights alerts other drivers to your presence, increasing visibility and reducing the risk of a collision.

Correct response if your wheels go off the pavement.

Grip the steering wheel firmly, slow down, and steer back onto the pavement.: If your wheels leave the pavement, its crucial to remain calm and avoid abrupt maneuvers. Grip the steering wheel firmly to maintain control, gradually reduce your speed, and then carefully steer back onto the road when its safe to do so.

Correct response in the event of a tire blowout.

Steer firmly in the direction you want to go and slow down.: If you experience a tire blowout, it is important to maintain control of the vehicle. Steer firmly in the direction you want to go to counteract the pull of the blown tire, and gradually slow down. Avoid braking abruptly, as this can cause a loss of control.

Actions required if involved in a collision where someone is injured.

Turn off all engines, set up warning signals, and offer assistance.: If you are involved in a collision where someone is injured, your primary responsibility is to ensure safety and provide assistance. Leaving the scene is illegal and can result in further legal trouble.

First action in a minor collision where there are no injuries.

Move the vehicles off the road if possible and set up warning signals.: In a minor collision where no one is injured, the first step is to move the vehicles out of the flow of traffic, if they are still operational, to prevent additional accidents and minimize traffic disruption. Drivers should then exchange necessary information, such as names, addresses, and insurance details.

Action if stuck or stranded in severe weather conditions.

Stay in your vehicle, keep it running, and use emergency flashers.: The safest course of action is to remain inside your vehicle. Keep the engine running to stay warm, but ensure there is proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Activate your emergency flashers to make your vehicle more visible to rescue teams and other drivers.