Busy California freeway and boulevard traffic results in plenty of frightening collisions each day. After a crash has occurred the best thing for any injured victims is the quick response of ambulance crews and law enforcement.
We’ve all been on the road when a siren goes off somewhere behind us. Once we see the red, flashing lights all drivers should allow an ambulance or patrol car to pass as quickly as possible.
It’s important that all California drivers know exactly what to do when an emergency vehicle is approaching and what the law says about this common situation.
When to Get out of the Way of a California Emergency Vehicle
Some drivers might think that they are only required to slow down a bit when an emergency vehicle is approaching. However, California’s vehicle codes are quite specific about what all California drivers should do in this situation.
You are required to take decisive action to get out of the way of an emergency vehicle if a few circumstances are true.
The vehicle must have its siren on and be showing at least one red light. The vehicle’s red light must be visible within 1,000 feet of where you are unless there are weather conditions affecting visibility. You must also move out of the path of the vehicle if an officer is directing you to.
How to Get Out of the Way of California Emergency Vehicles
California then directs you to follow these steps once an emergency vehicle with a siren and flashing lights is close by.
“(a) (1) Except as required under paragraph (2), the driver of every other vehicle shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to the right-hand edge or curb of the highway, clear of any intersection, and thereupon shall stop and remain stopped until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.
(2) A person driving a vehicle in an exclusive or preferential use lane shall exit that lane immediately upon determining that the exit can be accomplished with reasonable safety.”
California Emergency Vehicles and Pedestrian Requirements
You might be surprised to know that you also have certain responsibilities if you are on foot when an emergency vehicle appears.
Pedestrians in the roadway are required to proceed to the nearest curb or place of safety. They must stay in that spot until an authorized emergency vehicle has passed.
Punishment for Obstructing an Emergency Vehicle
Violating Vehicle Code 21806 is not considered a crime. It is dealt with as an infraction. Suspects will not be arrested.
However, violations can result in fines and points on the suspect’s license. A driver failing to yield to an emergency vehicle will pay a penalty of around $500. One point will go on the driver’s DMV record.
In some cases, drivers can voluntarily attend traffic school to avoid having a point applied to their records.
Contact a California Car Accident Lawyer
If an emergency vehicle was sent to an accident you were involved in, and you suffered a serious injury, speak with a skilled California Car Accident Attorney. Your emergency room visit may cost thousands of dollars and that may only be the start of your medical bills as you seek a full recovery. It’s important that you hold an at-fault driver’s insurance provider fully accountable for every hardship you face.
Martin Gasparian, the founder of Maison Law, offers a free case evaluation for all car accident victims. It’s a no-risk way to find out what your injury is worth and how to make sure you receive everything that’s fair for the pain and financial harm you’ve endured. Contact Mr. Gasparian to schedule a free consultation and talk to a real lawyer today.
