Stopping for Emergency Vehicles Under North Carolina Law

North Carolina law requires drivers to yield and stop for emergency vehicles to ensure the safety of first responders and the people they are helping. Whether it’s a police car, fire truck, or ambulance, these vehicles need clear roads to quickly reach their destination during emergencies. Failure to follow the laws regarding emergency vehicles can result in fines, points on your driver’s license, and increased danger for everyone on the road.

Understanding your obligations when encountering an emergency vehicle is essential to comply with state laws and prevent accidents.

North Carolina's Move Over Law

North Carolina General Statutes (NCGS) § 20-157 sets out specific rules for yielding to emergency vehicles. When an emergency vehicle, such as a police car, fire truck, or ambulance, is approaching with flashing lights and a siren, drivers must immediately yield the right-of-way.

• NCGS § 20-157(a): "Upon the approach of any police or fire department vehicle, or public or private ambulance, giving warning signal by appropriate light and by audible bell, siren, or exhaust whistle, the driver of every other vehicle shall immediately drive to a position as near as possible and parallel to the right-hand edge or curb of the highway clear of any intersection, and shall stop and remain in such position until the police or fire department vehicle, or public or private ambulance, has passed, except when otherwise directed by a police officer."

This statute outlines the steps drivers must take when an emergency vehicle is approaching:

1. Move to the right: Drivers should pull as far to the right as possible, ideally to the shoulder of the road, and stop.
2. Clear intersections: Do not stop in an intersection. If you are in the middle of an intersection when an emergency vehicle approaches, proceed through it before pulling over.
3. Remain stopped: Stay in place until the emergency vehicle has safely passed, unless otherwise directed by law enforcement.

Yielding to Stationary Emergency Vehicles (The "Move Over" Law)

In addition to yielding to moving emergency vehicles, North Carolina’s Move Over Law requires drivers to slow down and, if possible, move over when approaching stationary emergency vehicles that have flashing lights or other warning signals. This law applies to emergency vehicles such as police cars, fire trucks, ambulances, and tow trucks, as well as utility service vehicles performing work on the roadside.

• NCGS § 20-157(f): "When an authorized emergency vehicle is parked or standing within 12 feet of a roadway and is giving a warning signal by appropriate light, the driver of every other vehicle shall, as soon as it is safe and clear, move the vehicle into a lane that is not the lane nearest the parked or standing authorized emergency vehicle and continue traveling in that lane until safely clear of the authorized emergency vehicle."

If moving over is not possible due to traffic or road conditions, drivers are required to slow down and proceed cautiously to avoid endangering emergency personnel or others at the scene.

Failure to move over or slow down when approaching stationary emergency vehicles can result in serious penalties and put first responders at risk.

Penalties for Failing to Stop for or Move Over for Emergency Vehicles

North Carolina takes violations of the Move Over Law seriously. The penalties for failing to yield to emergency vehicles or move over for stationary emergency vehicles include:

• Fines: Fines can range from $250 to $500 for a violation of the Move Over Law, depending on the circumstances.
• Points on Your Driver’s License: A violation will result in three points on your driver’s license.
• Potential Criminal Charges: If a failure to yield results in an accident causing injury or death to an emergency responder, the driver can face misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of the incident.

Stopping for Emergency Vehicles on Different Types of Roads

The rules for stopping for emergency vehicles apply on all roads and highways, but certain situations may require extra caution:

1. Multi-Lane Roads

On roads with two or more lanes traveling in the same direction, drivers must pull to the rightmost lane and stop. If an emergency vehicle is coming up behind you, use your turn signal, move to the right lane, and come to a stop as far right as possible.

2. Divided Highways

If an emergency vehicle is approaching on the opposite side of a divided highway, with a median or barrier, you are not required to stop. However, if the emergency vehicle is in your lane of travel, you must pull over and stop.

3. Intersections

If you are in the middle of an intersection when an emergency vehicle approaches, do not stop in the intersection. Instead, proceed through it and then pull over as soon as it is safe to do so.

Tips for Safely Yielding to Emergency Vehicles

While it is essential to comply with the law, there are best practices you can follow to safely yield to emergency vehicles and ensure everyone’s safety:

• Stay alert: Keep your music at a reasonable volume and avoid distractions so that you can hear emergency vehicles approaching.
• Use your mirrors: Regularly check your mirrors for emergency vehicles, especially when driving through heavy traffic or congested areas.
• Don’t panic: When an emergency vehicle approaches, stay calm, use your turn signal, and move over safely. Avoid slamming on your brakes or making sudden movements that could confuse other drivers.
• Watch for other drivers: Other drivers may be trying to yield to the same emergency vehicle, so be aware of their movements when pulling over.

What to Do After an Accident Involving an Emergency Vehicle

If you are involved in an accident with an emergency vehicle, it’s important to follow the same steps as any other traffic accident. You should:

1. Stop at the scene and check for injuries.
2. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
3. Exchange information with the driver of the emergency vehicle, but avoid admitting fault.
4. Document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, the road conditions, and any other relevant factors.
5. Seek medical attention if you or any passengers are injured.

Accidents involving emergency vehicles can be complex, especially if the emergency vehicle was responding to an active call. Liability in these situations can vary depending on the circumstances, so it’s important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney if you’ve been injured.

How The Law Offices of John M. McCabe Can Help

If you’ve been involved in an accident with an emergency vehicle or if another driver failed to yield to an emergency vehicle and caused you harm, The Law Offices of John M. McCabe is here to help. Our experienced car accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.

We are dedicated to ensuring that negligent drivers are held accountable and that you receive the financial support you need to recover from your injuries. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and learn how we can assist you.