What actions must you take if you see emergency vehicles with flashing lights on the side of the road?

When you see emergency vehicles with flashing lights on the side of the road, the appropriate action is to move over a lane or reduce your speed if moving over is not possible. This action is crucial for several reasons.

Firstly, it helps ensure the safety of emergency personnel who are working on the roadside. By changing lanes or slowing down, you create a buffer zone that reduces the risk of accidents involving those first responders and any vehicles in the vicinity. Many jurisdictions, including Virginia, have "Move Over" laws that require drivers to either change lanes or reduce speed when passing by stationary emergency vehicles with flashing lights.

If changing lanes is not feasible due to traffic conditions, reducing your speed helps to mitigate any potential danger. It allows for better reaction time for both you and any surrounding vehicles, making it safer for everyone involved.

Continuing at your current speed or stopping immediately could create a hazardous situation, either by placing you in danger of a collision or by causing unexpected disruptions in traffic. Additionally, sounding your horn is generally discouraged unless necessary to alert other drivers to your presence in a specific situation, as it could further confuse the situation rather than help.

Hence, moving over or reducing speed aligns with safe driving practices and legal requirements, making it the