Which action is recommended when you see an emergency vehicle responding with lights and sirens?

When you see an emergency vehicle responding with lights and sirens, the recommended action is to pull over to the right and stop. This action is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows the emergency vehicle to pass safely and quickly without having to navigate around other vehicles, which is vital in situations where every second counts, such as in medical emergencies or fire responses.

By pulling over to the right, you create a clear path for the emergency vehicle. Stopping helps ensure that your vehicle is stationary, reducing the risk of collisions and ensuring the safety of everyone on the road. Moreover, this action demonstrates compliance with traffic laws, which often require drivers to yield to emergency vehicles.

In contrast, speeding up to stay ahead might create obstacles for the emergency vehicle, while remaining in your lane and continuing to drive could impede its progress. Turning on hazard lights without stopping does not provide the necessary clearance for the emergency response and can still pose a risk of confusion on the roadway. Therefore, pulling over to the right and stopping is the safest, most effective response when encountering an emergency vehicle.