What should you do if you are driving and hear a siren from an emergency vehicle?

When you hear a siren from an emergency vehicle, the appropriate action is to pull over and stop to allow the vehicle to pass. This is crucial for several reasons. Emergency vehicles, such as ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars, are responding to urgent situations where time is of the essence. By pulling over to the side of the road, you provide a clear path for these responders, enabling them to reach their destinations quickly and safely.

Stopping also promotes safety on the road, as it helps prevent confusion and potential accidents. Drivers who do not yield to emergency vehicles can create dangerous situations not only for themselves but also for the emergency responders and other road users. Following this protocol is also a legal requirement in many jurisdictions, including Missouri.

The other options may seem attractive for various reasons but can lead to dangerous consequences. Speeding up can create chaos in traffic and increase the risk of collisions. Continuing to drive or ignoring the siren disregards the law and can impede emergency response efforts. Taking the time to look for the vehicle may delay your response and still result in a failure to yield the right of way, which can be hazardous.