Here Are The Rules On When To Pull Over In Texas

I think at this point we've all seen somebody just plain freeze up with they are confronted by an emergency vehicle.

What Happens?

I've seen several people just stop, right where they're at when dealing with an emergency vehicle. For the most part, when that happens it can make the situation worse. Ignoring the emergency vehicle is equally bad.

Here's The Law

Texas law requires you to pull over to the right when you see an emergency vehicle. Here's the easy part...it doesn't matter whether they are coming towards you, or coming up behind you, you are supposed to pull over to the right. If for some reason you can't move over, you are supposed to slow down to at least 20 miles per hour below the speed limit.

What Kind Of Vehicles?

You should pull over for ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars. Things get a little fuzzy from here, but apparently, you should do the same for any vehicle displaying emergency lights, including TxDot road vehicles and other cars and trucks carrying other emergency response personnel.

Anticipation Is Key

The drivers of emergency vehicles need to anticipate what you are doing, which is why you should follow the rules as stated. It is also important to remember that the goal is to allow them to pass through the area quickly. With that said, there are very unique situations where you could be making things worse even by following the law.  Our common goal needs to be assisting them by getting out of the way.

Be A Helper

You could be fined for not pulling over for emergency vehicles, but more importantly, you could be delaying important medical treatment for someone. Pulling over isn't just the law, it's a good deed and a human and compassionate thing to do.