It is common knowledge on the roads that emergency vehicles have priority over road cars when the blue lights are flashing.
Blue lights and sirens indicate an emergency and motorists have a duty to assist the authorities get to the scene quicker whether it be an accident or a crime.
Motorists must, however, be careful and still abide by road rules if they are moving out of the way of an ambulance as it could result in them landing a fine.
If when you are moving out of the way of the emergency vehicle and you run a red light or go into a bus lane then you can receive a fine.
This may seem cruel if you are helping out the emergency service but drivers are being warned thatchy could still be penalised.
The Highway Code states, “You should look and listen for ambulances, fire engines, police, doctors or other emergency vehicles using flashing blue, red or green lights and sirens, or flashing headlights, or traffic officer and incident support vehicles using flashing amber lights.
“When one approaches do not panic.
“Consider the route of such a vehicle and take appropriate action to let it pass, while complying with all traffic signs.
“If necessary, pull to the side of the road and stop, but try to avoid stopping before the brow of a hill, a bend or narrow section of road.”
Drivers should also be vigilant to not endanger other road users, pedestrian sand themselves when getting out of the way of an ambulance.
The maximum penalty for running a red light is £1,000 fine and six penalty points. However, it is much more likely you’d receive a £60 on the spot fine and three points.
You can all be fined £90 for entering a bus lane, however, this can be halved if it is paid within a 14 day period.