What action should you take if approached by emergency vehicles with lights flashing?

When approached by emergency vehicles with their lights flashing, the correct action is to change lanes or slow down. This response is crucial not only for the safety of the emergency personnel who may need to navigate through traffic but also for your own safety and the safety of other drivers on the road.

Moving to a different lane, if possible, allows the emergency vehicle to pass without obstruction. If changing lanes is not feasible, slowing down helps create space for the emergency vehicle and reduces the likelihood of an accident. Additionally, many states, including Florida, have "Move Over" laws that require drivers to either vacate the lane closest to an emergency vehicle or reduce their speed when passing. This practice helps ensure that emergency responders can perform their duties safely and effectively.

In contrast, speeding up to get away may create panic and endanger both yourself and others on the road, while continuing to drive at the same speed could impede the progress of the emergency vehicle. Stopping in your lane may also block the emergency vehicle’s path and should generally be avoided unless you are in a situation where it is unsafe to maneuver.