AmbulanceNew Zealand
Traffic rules
New Zealand
43. Ambulance
An ambulance is a vehicle equipped and used to provide emergency medical assistance or transport patients to or between healthcare facilities. Ambulances may carry medical equipment and trained personnel who can provide treatment during transport.
During an emergency response, an ambulance may use warning lights and a siren and may receive special priority or exemptions from certain traffic rules. Other road users must follow the local rules for emergency vehicles, make sufficient space and avoid obstructing their passage.
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What is an ambulance?
An ambulance is a specially equipped vehicle used to provide emergency medical assistance and transport sick or injured people.
When does an ambulance have priority?
This depends on the local traffic rules and warning signals being used. Ambulances responding to emergencies commonly use flashing lights and a siren to indicate that other road users must make way.
What should you do when an ambulance approaches?
Remain calm and make sufficient space for it to pass. Slow down or stop where necessary, but avoid sudden or dangerous manoeuvres.
Should you stop immediately when you hear an ambulance siren?
Not necessarily in your exact position. Move or stop in a way that creates a safe passage without blocking an intersection, pedestrian crossing or another part of the road needed by the ambulance.
Can an ambulance pass a red traffic light?
Emergency vehicles may be allowed to pass a red light during an urgent response under special legal conditions. The precise rules differ between countries, and the ambulance driver must still take appropriate precautions.
Can an ambulance exceed the speed limit?
Many countries permit emergency vehicles to depart from certain normal speed rules during an urgent mission, subject to safety requirements and national legislation.
Can an ambulance drive through a traffic queue?
Yes, when responding to an emergency and legally permitted to do so. Other road users should create space and keep emergency corridors or access routes clear where required.
Can you follow an ambulance through traffic?
You should not use the passage created for an ambulance as a way to bypass congestion. Maintain a safe distance and continue to obey the normal traffic rules.
Do ambulances always use their sirens?
No. The use of warning lights and sirens depends on the urgency of the mission and local regulations. An ambulance transporting a patient does not necessarily need to use emergency signals throughout the journey.
What should you do near a stationary ambulance?
Reduce speed and remain alert. Medical personnel, patients or other emergency workers may be entering the road, and the ambulance may need to move unexpectedly.
