What to Do When an Emergency Vehicle Approaches in Victoria
A Complete Guide for Melbourne Learner Drivers: Ambulances, Police Cars, Fire Trucks and Victorian Road Rules
Imagine you're driving through Dandenong, Berwick, Pakenham or Frankston when you suddenly hear a siren.
You check your mirrors and notice an ambulance approaching from behind with flashing lights.
What should you do?
Should you stop immediately? Move to the left? Change lanes? What if you're waiting at a red traffic light or travelling on a busy Melbourne freeway?
For learner drivers, these situations can feel stressful, especially when there are other vehicles nearby.
However, knowing how to give way to emergency vehicles in Victoria is an essential part of becoming a safe and confident driver.
Emergency vehicles, including ambulances, police vehicles and fire trucks, may need to respond quickly to serious incidents. Giving them a clear path can help emergency workers reach people who need urgent assistance.
At DOS Driving School, we help Melbourne learners develop safe driving habits, hazard awareness and confidence when responding to unexpected situations.
In this guide, you'll learn what to do when emergency vehicles approach, how Victorian road rules apply and which common mistakes to avoid.
BOOK DRIVING LESSONS
1. What Is an Emergency Vehicle in Victoria?
Emergency vehicles are vehicles used by authorised emergency services when responding to urgent situations.
Common Examples Include
- Ambulances.
- Police vehicles.
- Fire trucks and other emergency firefighting vehicles.
- Other vehicles authorised under Victorian road rules.
These vehicles may use flashing red or blue lights and sirens to alert other road users.
Why Do Emergency Vehicles Use Lights and Sirens?
Emergency warning signals help alert drivers that an emergency vehicle may need priority.
Emergency services may be responding to:
- Serious road crashes.
- Medical emergencies.
- Fires.
- Rescue operations.
- Dangerous incidents.
- Other urgent situations.
Important: Not every vehicle displaying flashing lights has the same legal status. Tow trucks and roadside assistance vehicles may be subject to different rules.
2. Do You Have to Give Way to Emergency Vehicles in Victoria?
Yes. Victorian road rules require drivers to give way to approaching police and emergency vehicles displaying flashing red or blue lights or sounding an alarm.
Giving way means taking appropriate action to allow the emergency vehicle to pass safely.
You Should Not
- Deliberately obstruct its path.
- Continue driving in a way that prevents it from passing.
- Make sudden, unpredictable manoeuvres.
- Attempt to race ahead of it.
- Follow closely behind it.
What Does Giving Way Mean?
Giving way does not necessarily mean immediately stopping wherever you are.
Depending on the road conditions, it may mean:
- Reducing your speed.
- Moving safely towards the left.
- Changing lanes when safe.
- Stopping in a suitable location.
- Leaving a clear path.
- Remaining stationary when moving would create danger.
Key lesson: Give way promptly, but always maintain control and avoid creating another hazard.
3. What Should You Do When You Hear a Siren?
When you hear an emergency siren, your first responsibility is to identify where the sound is coming from.
Avoid reacting before understanding the situation.
Step 1: Stay Calm
Do not panic or brake suddenly. Maintain control of your vehicle.
Step 2: Check Your Mirrors
Look in your rear-view and side mirrors.
Determine whether the emergency vehicle is approaching from behind, ahead or a side road.
Step 3: Assess the Surrounding Traffic
- Vehicles behind you.
- Adjacent lanes.
- Pedestrians and cyclists.
- Nearby intersections.
- Available space beside the road.
- The emergency vehicle's direction.
Step 4: Choose a Safe Response
Slow down, move aside or stop when appropriate.
Step 5: Allow the Emergency Vehicle to Pass
Keep the path clear and avoid unnecessary movements.
STAY CALM → CHECK MIRRORS → ASSESS TRAFFIC → GIVE WAY SAFELY
4. Should You Always Pull Over to the Left?
Moving towards the left can often help an approaching emergency vehicle pass.
However, you should not automatically swerve left or stop without checking whether it is safe.
The appropriate action depends on the road layout and surrounding traffic.
When Moving Left May Be Suitable
- The left side is clear.
- There is sufficient room.
- You can move without cutting off another vehicle.
- There are no pedestrians or cyclists in your path.
- You can safely stop or slow down.
When Moving Left May Be Unsafe
- A cyclist is travelling beside you.
- The left lane is occupied.
- There is a traffic island or other obstruction.
- You're approaching an intersection.
- Moving left would block the emergency vehicle.
- There is insufficient room to change lanes.
Example: Driving in Berwick
You're travelling along a suburban road when a fire truck approaches from behind.
You check your mirrors and notice that the left side of the road is clear.
You indicate if necessary, move left smoothly and allow the fire truck to pass.
Learner driver tip: The aim is to create a safe passage, not simply to move left at any cost.
5. What to Do on a Single-Lane Road
Single-lane roads can be challenging because there may be limited space for an emergency vehicle to overtake.
Safe Response
- Check your mirrors.
- Reduce speed smoothly.
- Look for a suitable place to move aside.
- Signal when appropriate.
- Move left if safe.
- Stop when necessary to allow the emergency vehicle to pass.
Example: Residential Driving in Pakenham
You're driving along a narrow residential street.
An ambulance approaches from behind.
Parked vehicles make the road narrower.
Rather than stopping suddenly beside parked cars, look for a safe location where you can allow the ambulance through.
Remember: Do not create a blockage while attempting to give way.
6. What to Do on a Multi-Lane Road
Melbourne has many busy multi-lane roads, including major arterial roads and freeways.
When an emergency vehicle approaches, observe its position and the movements of surrounding traffic.
Important Steps
- Check your mirrors.
- Identify the emergency vehicle's intended path.
- Avoid unnecessary lane changes.
- Move aside when safe and appropriate.
- Maintain sufficient space around your vehicle.
- Avoid cutting off other motorists.
- Allow the emergency vehicle to pass.
Example: Driving on Princes Highway
You're travelling in the right lane when a police vehicle approaches from behind with flashing lights and a siren.
If the adjacent lane is clear, you may be able to change lanes safely and allow the police vehicle to continue.
If changing lanes immediately would be dangerous, avoid forcing your way into another vehicle's path.
Key lesson: Make predictable movements and give way as safely as the circumstances allow.
7. What If an Emergency Vehicle Approaches at a Red Traffic Light?
This is one of the most important situations for learner drivers to understand.
Imagine you're stopped at a red light in Dandenong.
An ambulance approaches from behind with flashing lights and a siren.
You may feel pressured to move forward.
However, you must not assume that an approaching emergency vehicle gives you permission to drive through a red traffic light.
What Should You Do?
- Stay calm.
- Check the emergency vehicle's position.
- Assess whether there is room to move safely.
- Avoid entering the intersection against a red signal unless lawfully directed by an authorised person.
- Do not move into pedestrians or crossing traffic.
- Allow the emergency vehicle to find a safe route where possible.
Example
You're waiting at a red traffic light.
An ambulance approaches from behind.
There is no safe space to move aside without crossing the stop line into the intersection.
Remain stationary rather than creating a collision risk.
Important: Do not break traffic signals or create danger because another driver is pressuring you to move.
8. What If an Emergency Vehicle Approaches While You're Crossing an Intersection?
Intersections require particular care because vehicles and pedestrians may be moving in several directions.
If You're Approaching an Intersection
Look for the emergency vehicle and assess whether you can safely stop before entering.
If You're Already Inside the Intersection
Avoid stopping suddenly in a position that blocks crossing traffic or the emergency vehicle.
Continue to a safe position when lawful and appropriate, then give way.
Example: Driving in Frankston
You're completing a turn when you hear a siren.
Instead of stopping abruptly halfway through the intersection, maintain awareness and move to a safe position where you can allow the emergency vehicle to pass.
Learner driver tip: Anticipate hazards early and avoid stopping where your vehicle creates an obstruction.
9. How to Respond on Melbourne Freeways
Emergency vehicles may travel along Melbourne freeways while responding to crashes, medical emergencies or other urgent incidents.
Common examples include:
- Monash Freeway.
- Princes Freeway.
- EastLink.
- Peninsula Link.
- West Gate Freeway.
Freeway Safety Tips
- Check mirrors early: Identify the emergency vehicle's location.
- Avoid sudden braking: High-speed traffic requires smooth and predictable responses.
- Change lanes only when safe: Check mirrors and blind spots.
- Do not stop unnecessarily: Avoid stopping in live traffic lanes or on the emergency stopping lane unless necessary and lawful.
- Keep a clear path: Allow the emergency vehicle sufficient room.
- Stay alert: Other motorists may react unpredictably.
Example: Driving on the Monash Freeway
An ambulance approaches from behind while traffic is moving slowly.
You notice surrounding vehicles beginning to make space.
Maintain a safe following distance and move aside when safe rather than making a sudden lane change.
Remember: Emergency vehicles need cooperation, not unpredictable reactions.
10. What If You're Driving Through Heavy Traffic?
In congested traffic, there may be very little space to move.
Emergency vehicles may need surrounding motorists to cooperate to create a clear passage.
What Can You Do?
- Check the emergency vehicle's location.
- Leave space between vehicles when possible.
- Move aside safely.
- Avoid blocking intersections.
- Do not drive onto footpaths.
- Avoid sudden lane changes.
- Follow lawful directions from police or authorised traffic controllers.
Example: Heavy Traffic in Dandenong
You're stopped in a queue of vehicles.
A fire truck approaches from behind.
Vehicles begin creating space.
If safe, adjust your position to help open a path without entering an intersection illegally or obstructing pedestrians.
Key lesson: Small, safe movements can help emergency vehicles pass through congestion.
11. Why You Should Avoid Sudden Braking
Hearing a siren can surprise an inexperienced driver.
One common mistake is immediately pressing the brakes without checking the surrounding traffic.
Why Sudden Braking Can Be Dangerous
- Vehicles behind may not have enough time to stop.
- Other drivers may react unpredictably.
- You could block the emergency vehicle.
- Sudden stopping may create a secondary collision risk.
Better Approach
Check mirrors, assess the situation and reduce speed smoothly when appropriate.
If an immediate danger requires emergency braking, respond as necessary to avoid a collision.
Remember: Smooth, controlled actions are usually safer than panic reactions.
12. Always Check Blind Spots Before Moving Aside
When giving way, some drivers focus entirely on the emergency vehicle.
However, cyclists, motorcyclists and other vehicles may be travelling beside them.
Before Changing Lanes
- Check your rear-view mirror.
- Check the relevant side mirror.
- Signal appropriately.
- Check the relevant blind spot.
- Move only when safe.
Example
You're driving in Cranbourne when a police vehicle approaches from behind.
You intend to move left, but a cyclist is travelling beside your vehicle.
Wait until you can move safely without endangering the cyclist.
Key lesson: Giving way to one road user should not create danger for another.
13. What If an Emergency Vehicle Approaches from the Opposite Direction?
An emergency vehicle may approach from ahead rather than behind.
Its required path may depend on the road layout and traffic conditions.
What Should You Do?
- Identify the vehicle's direction.
- Reduce speed when necessary.
- Watch for it crossing into your side of the road.
- Give way if your path may conflict.
- Avoid sudden movements.
- Follow lawful directions from police or authorised personnel.
Example
You're driving along a suburban road when a fire truck approaches from the opposite direction.
The fire truck needs additional space to pass a traffic obstruction.
Reduce speed and give it room when safe.
Remember: Always assess the situation rather than assuming the emergency vehicle will remain in its original lane.
14. What to Do When Emergency Vehicles Are Stopped on the Road
An emergency vehicle may be stationary while workers attend a crash, breakdown or roadside incident.
Victoria has special rules for passing certain stationary or slow-moving vehicles displaying flashing warning lights or sounding an alarm.
Victoria's 40 km/h Rule
When approaching applicable stationary or slow-moving vehicles displaying flashing lights or sounding an alarm, drivers must generally slow to 40 km/h or less when passing.
This applies to relevant emergency and enforcement vehicles, and certain roadside assistance and tow trucks.
Drivers must also give workers sufficient space and proceed at a speed that is safe for the conditions.
Important Distinction
Moving emergency vehicle: Give way to the approaching emergency vehicle.
Stationary or slow-moving emergency or roadside vehicle: Follow the applicable slow-down rules, including the 40 km/h requirement where it applies.
Example: Passing a Roadside Incident
You're travelling along a road with an 80 km/h limit.
Ahead, police vehicles are attending a crash with flashing warning lights.
Reduce speed to comply with the applicable 40 km/h rule and pass carefully when safe.
Important: The posted speed limit does not override a special requirement to slow down near applicable roadside vehicles.
15. Are Tow Trucks the Same as Emergency Vehicles?
Not necessarily.
Tow trucks and roadside assistance vehicles perform important work, but they are not automatically treated the same as ambulances, police vehicles or fire trucks under every Victorian road rule.
What Should Learners Understand?
Different rules may apply depending on whether a vehicle is:
- Approaching while responding to an emergency.
- Stationary at a roadside incident.
- Moving slowly while carrying out roadside work.
- Displaying the warning lights specified by the applicable rule.
Victoria's slow-down requirements can apply to certain tow trucks and roadside assistance vehicles displaying flashing warning lights.
Learner driver tip: Do not assume every flashing light means the same thing. Identify the situation and follow the applicable Victorian road rules.
16. Should You Follow Closely Behind an Emergency Vehicle?
No.
Following an emergency vehicle closely can be dangerous because it may brake, turn or change direction unexpectedly.
Why Keeping Your Distance Matters
- Emergency vehicles may stop suddenly.
- Other drivers may react unpredictably.
- You could obstruct emergency workers.
- Following closely reduces your reaction time.
- It may create additional risks at intersections.
Important Reminder
Do not copy another state's following-distance rule without checking Victorian requirements.
Maintain a safe following distance and never follow an emergency vehicle to take advantage of the space it creates in traffic.
Remember: Once the emergency vehicle passes, allow it to continue without interference.
17. When Can You Resume Normal Driving?
After an emergency vehicle has passed, do not immediately accelerate or change lanes without checking your surroundings.
Before Continuing
- Check your mirrors.
- Look for additional emergency vehicles.
- Observe surrounding traffic.
- Check pedestrians and cyclists.
- Return to your lane when safe.
- Follow the applicable speed limit.
- Resume driving smoothly.
Example
An ambulance passes your vehicle.
You prepare to move back into your lane.
Before moving, check whether another emergency vehicle is approaching.
Key lesson: Stay alert until the entire situation has cleared.
18. Common Mistakes Learner Drivers Make Around Emergency Vehicles
| Common Mistake |
Safer Response |
| Panicking when hearing a siren |
Stay calm and assess the situation |
| Braking suddenly without checking mirrors |
Reduce speed smoothly when appropriate |
| Moving left without checking |
Check mirrors and blind spots |
| Blocking an intersection |
Keep intersections clear when possible |
| Driving through a red light to make space |
Follow traffic signals unless lawfully directed otherwise |
| Cutting off another vehicle |
Change lanes only when safe |
| Ignoring flashing lights |
Identify the situation and give way as required |
| Stopping in an unsafe position |
Choose a suitable location |
| Following an emergency vehicle closely |
Maintain a safe distance |
| Accelerating immediately after it passes |
Check for further hazards |
| Passing a stationary emergency vehicle too quickly |
Follow Victoria's applicable slow-down rules |
| Assuming every flashing light means the same thing |
Identify the vehicle and applicable rule |
19. How to Practise Emergency Vehicle Awareness During Driving Lessons
Learner drivers can prepare for emergency situations without deliberately creating dangerous scenarios.
Exercise 1: Mirror Awareness
Goal: Improve awareness of vehicles approaching from behind.
Practise regular mirror checks during suitable driving conditions.
Exercise 2: Safe Lane Changes
Goal: Develop smooth, controlled movements.
Practise checking mirrors, indicating, checking blind spots and changing lanes safely.
Exercise 3: Safe Stopping Positions
Goal: Recognise appropriate places to stop.
Discuss how to avoid blocking intersections, pedestrian crossings and other road users.
Exercise 4: Hazard Recognition
Goal: Identify warning signals early.
Discuss emergency vehicle lights, sirens and developing traffic situations with your instructor.
Exercise 5: Scenario Discussion
Goal: Improve decision-making.
Ask your instructor:
- What if an ambulance approaches from behind?
- What if I'm waiting at a red light?
- What if the left lane is occupied?
- What if I'm driving on a freeway?
- What if emergency vehicles are stopped beside the road?
Important: These scenarios should be discussed or practised only when safe. Never deliberately obstruct emergency vehicles or attempt risky manoeuvres for training purposes.
20. How Emergency Vehicle Awareness Helps with the VicRoads Drive Test
Responding appropriately to hazards is an important part of safe driving.
During the VicRoads Drive Test, learners are expected to demonstrate:
- Effective observation.
- Safe speed management.
- Appropriate use of mirrors.
- Correct signalling.
- Safe lane changes.
- Hazard awareness.
- Compliance with road rules.
- Sound decision-making.
Example: An Emergency Vehicle Approaches During Your Test
You're driving along a suburban road when you hear a siren.
You check your mirrors, identify the emergency vehicle and take appropriate safe action to give way.
The important consideration is responding safely and lawfully rather than making a sudden movement.
Remember: Safe decision-making is essential during your driving test and throughout your driving life.
21. Emergency Vehicle Road Safety Checklist
When You Hear a Siren
- Stay calm.
- Check mirrors.
- Identify the emergency vehicle.
- Assess the surrounding traffic.
- Look for a safe way to give way.
- Avoid sudden movements.
- Follow traffic signals and road rules.
- Allow the emergency vehicle to pass.
When Approaching Stationary Emergency Vehicles
- Look for flashing warning lights.
- Reduce speed according to the applicable rules.
- Maintain a safe clearance.
- Watch for workers and pedestrians.
- Follow traffic directions.
- Proceed carefully.
After the Emergency Vehicle Passes
- Check for additional emergency vehicles.
- Observe surrounding traffic.
- Return to your lane safely.
- Resume an appropriate speed.
- Maintain a safe following distance.
STAY CALM → CHECK MIRRORS → GIVE WAY SAFELY → STAY ALERT
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do you have to give way to ambulances in Victoria?
Yes. Drivers must give way to approaching emergency vehicles displaying flashing red or blue lights or sounding an alarm.
2. Should you always pull over to the left for an emergency vehicle?
Moving left is often helpful, but only when safe and appropriate. Do not swerve or cut off other road users.
3. Can you drive through a red light to let an ambulance pass in Victoria?
An approaching ambulance does not automatically authorise you to drive through a red light. Follow traffic signals unless lawfully directed otherwise.
4. What should you do if an ambulance approaches from behind?
Check your mirrors, remain calm and move aside or stop when safe to allow it to pass.
5. What if there is no room to move left?
Avoid unsafe manoeuvres. Assess the available space and give way as safely as possible.
6. What should you do when an emergency vehicle approaches on a freeway?
Check mirrors, maintain control, avoid sudden braking and move aside when safe.
7. What speed should you drive past a stationary emergency vehicle in Victoria?
Where Victoria's applicable slow-down rule applies, reduce speed to 40 km/h or less and proceed safely.
8. Does the 40 km/h rule apply to tow trucks?
It can apply to certain tow trucks and roadside assistance vehicles displaying the required warning lights.
9. Can you stop in the middle of an intersection for an ambulance?
Avoid stopping where you would create an obstruction or danger. Respond according to the circumstances and applicable road rules.
10. Should you follow an emergency vehicle after it passes?
No. Maintain a safe distance and do not use the emergency vehicle's passage to move through traffic.
11. What if you hear a siren but cannot see the vehicle?
Stay alert, check mirrors and surrounding roads, and avoid sudden movements until you identify the situation.
12. What if two emergency vehicles approach together?
Remain alert after the first vehicle passes and allow any additional emergency vehicles through safely.
13. Can learner drivers be fined for failing to give way?
Yes. Failing to comply with applicable Victorian road rules can result in penalties.
14. Will an emergency vehicle affect my VicRoads Drive Test?
If an emergency vehicle approaches during a test, respond safely and according to the road rules. Your actions may be assessed as part of your driving performance.
15. What is the most important rule when an emergency vehicle approaches?
Stay calm, identify the vehicle, give way safely and avoid creating additional danger.
Final Thoughts: Give Way Safely and Help Emergency Services
Emergency vehicles perform essential work across Melbourne and Victoria.
When an ambulance, police vehicle or fire truck approaches, every driver has a responsibility to respond appropriately.
For learner drivers, understanding these situations is an important part of developing confidence and safe decision-making.
Remember These Five Principles
- STAY CALM: Avoid panic reactions.
- CHECK MIRRORS: Identify where the emergency vehicle is approaching from.
- ASSESS THE ROAD: Look for pedestrians, cyclists and surrounding traffic.
- GIVE WAY SAFELY: Create a clear path without making dangerous movements.
- STAY ALERT: Watch for additional emergency vehicles before resuming normal driving.
STAY CALM → GIVE WAY SAFELY → HELP SAVE LIVES
Your safe response can help emergency services reach people who need urgent assistance.
Learn Safe Driving Skills with DOS Driving School
At DOS Driving School, we help Melbourne learner drivers develop practical road safety skills, hazard awareness and confidence behind the wheel.
With 30+ years of trusted driving experience, our professional team supports learners preparing for everyday driving and their VicRoads Drive Test.
Our driving lessons help learners improve:
- Hazard perception and defensive driving.
- Emergency vehicle awareness.
- Safe speed management.
- Mirror checks and blind spot awareness.
- Lane changing and merging.
- Intersections and roundabouts.
- City and freeway driving.
- VicRoads Drive Test preparation.
Whether you're a beginner, nervous learner or preparing for your driving test, our team can help you develop safe driving habits for life.
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