Breakdowns, Meeting Emergency or Extra-large Vehicles

What action should a driver take when they meet a vehicle with flashing blue lights?

Move to the left, reduce speed and stop if necessary

What should a driver do if an ambulance is stopped up ahead with its flashing blue lights on?

Reduce speed and prepare to stop

How are emergency vehicles identified?

By flashing red or blue lights

Which vehicle is exempt from speed limits when being used in an emergency?

Fire brigade, Gardaí, and ambulance

How should a driver react to emergency service vehicles with flashing blue lights and/or sirens on?

Check their mirrors before looking for space to move aside

What should a driver do when an emergency service vehicle approaches with flashing blue lights?

React quickly, safely and carefully to allow the emergency service vehicle to pass

What should a driver never do when an emergency service vehicle approaches with flashing blue lights?

Brake suddenly or block the road

Can a driver break a red light or break the speed limit to allow an emergency service vehicle to pass?

No

What is the likely effect of motorists ‘rubbernecking’ at the scene of a traffic incident?

It can cause additional incidents as drivers become distracted

What does rubbernecking mean?

When drivers take their eyes off the road to look at a distraction, such as an accident or arrest

When should a driver use hazard warning lights on a motorway?

When the vehicle has broken down

What should a driver do if their vehicle is broken down on a motorway and they are awaiting assistance?

Switch on the vehicle hazard warning lights, get out of the vehicle and stand safely to the side