Drivers are being warned that moving out of the way incorrectly for an ambulance or another emergency service vehicle could land them in hot water – and even facing a fine.
When we hear or see an emergency vehicle on the road, our natural instinct – if it’s coming our way – is to move over so that it can pass. However, what we think is the right thing to do might not actually be the safest or most appropriate course of action. How we react could end up putting us on the wrong side of the law.
Do I have to move over for emergency vehicles?
Yes, according to the Highway Code but not to the endangerment of yourself, other road users or pedestrians.
Do I have to move over for emergency vehicles immediately?
The answer is no, you should only move your lease car when it is safe and legal to do so. Sudden or unsafe manoeuvres can cause accidents or lead to penalties.
The priority is to remain predictable, check your surroundings, and prepare to move over for emergency vehicles when a safe opportunity appears.
How do I move over for an emergency vehicle?
This is where many drivers come unstuck. A significant number mount the kerb to get out of the way but according to the Highway Code, this could result in a fine.
You could also be penalised if you:
- Cross the line at traffic lights
- Enter a bus lane
- Make unsafe or illegal manoeuvres
Blue Light Aware has confirmed that drivers could risk fines if they respond incorrectly when letting an emergency vehicle pass. Emergency service drivers are trained to avoid putting other road users in a position where they feel pressured to break the rules.
How do I move over safely?
You should stay alert for ambulances, fire engines, police vehicles, doctors, or other emergency responders using flashing blue, red, or green lights, as well as sirens or flashing headlights. Also watch for traffic officers and incident support vehicles displaying flashing amber lights. When one approaches, remain calm.
Think about the route the vehicle may take and act accordingly to allow it to pass, while still following all traffic rules. If needed, move to the side of the road and stop, but avoid stopping near the crest of a hill, on a bend, or in a narrow section.
Do not put yourself, other road users, or pedestrians at risk, and avoid driving onto the kerb. Refrain from braking suddenly when approaching junctions or roundabouts, as drivers behind you may not be able to see the situation as clearly.
What if you’re at a red light?
The penalty for entering a bus lane is £90, while you could receive a £100 fixed penalty notice for running a red light.
Typically, when an emergency service vehicle approaches a traffic light junction, it will make itself known so drivers can respond safely. Emergency drivers understand that motorists cannot ‘jump’ a red light and would never expect them to cross the solid white line unlawfully.
In such situations, they may:
- Hold off on activating lights or sirens until it is safe for the vehicle in front to move.
- Use a uniformed police officer to direct a motorist through a red light, if necessary.
Can you be fined for moving out of the way of an ambulance?
Yes, in certain situations you can still be fined if you break traffic laws while attempting to give way.
As mentioned, going through a red light to allow an ambulance through could result in a penalty. This leads many drivers to question if it’s illegal to not move for emergency vehicles versus risking a fine for moving.
The key point is that penalties are issued based on your actions. A fine for not moving over for emergency vehicles is less common than penalties for unsafe or illegal manoeuvres, but it can happen if you obstruct emergency services unnecessarily.
Can I appeal?
If you receive a penalty in the UK while moving out of the way for emergency vehicles, you may be able to appeal.
In some cases, authorities will review evidence (such as dashcam footage) and consider whether your actions were reasonable. However, this is not guaranteed.
A failure to move over for emergency vehicle offence could also lead to penalties if your actions are deemed to have obstructed emergency services.
Always follow the highway code on moving for emergency vehicles guidance to reduce the risk of fines.
What should I do on motorways & dual carriageways?
On faster roads, awareness and lane discipline are key.
If an emergency vehicle approaches:
- Move left if it is safe to do so
- Avoid harsh braking
- Use indicators early
Drivers often wonder if you have to move over for emergency vehicles on motorways. While you should allow them through, you must not make dangerous lane changes.
This reflects the broader law on moving over for emergency vehicles, which prioritises safety over urgency.
What to do on a smart motorway
Smart motorways can be more complex due to variable speed limits and lane controls.
If you encounter blue lights:
- Follow overhead gantry instructions
- Do not enter closed lanes
- Move left when safe
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