As an insurethebox telematics car insurance policyholder you are likely to be a low-mileage driver who does not use their car as often or for as lengthy journeys as other road users, you may still encounter emergency vehicles while you are out and about on the road.

However, it is important that all road users should know how to react when seeing flashing lights or hear a siren approaching.

 

Moving out of the way safely

On many occasions the drivers of emergency vehicles need other motorists on the road to clear a space for them to pass through so that they can get to the scene of an emergency as soon as possible.

Rule 219 of the Highway Code provides these tips for how to move out of the way safely:

  • Firstly, it states, “do not panic”. That won’t be of help to anyone.
  • Next, “consider the route of such a vehicle and take appropriate action to let it pass, while complying with all traffic signs.” For example, don’t head the wrong way down a one-way street since it’s likely to cause problems and maybe even a crash.
  • Elaborating on the previous advice it continues, “Do not endanger yourself, other road users or pedestrians and avoid mounting the kerb.”
  • And lastly, “Do not brake harshly on approach to a junction or roundabout, as a following vehicle may not have the same view as you.”

 

Avoiding confusion

As well as knowing how to move out of the way safely, you need to know when you should move out of the way. It might seem an obvious statement, but not every emergency vehicle will warn you of its approach with flashing blue lights.

Vehicles that belong to doctors on call, Highways Agency Traffic and Incident Support officers have flashing red, green or amber lights.

Amber lights signify a slow moving or stationary vehicle which should be approached with caution, and if you see green or red flashing lights approaching you should move to one side and let the vehicle pass, just as you would for a police, fire or ambulance vehicle.

 

Great telematics car insurance

If you are aware of different emergency vehicles and know how to safely and considerately make room for them to pass you on the road, you could be saving money with an insurethebox telematics car insurance policy as we reward good drivers.

Click on the get a quote button to get started online.