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AmbulanceUnited States

An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of United States. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.

For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.

Traffic signs
Traffic rules
United States

84. 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.

Ambulance
Ambulance in California, United States.
Wikimedia.org • Rafaelmanman • CC BY-SA
What is an ambulance?

An ambulance is a specially equipped vehicle used to provide emergency medical assistance and transport sick or injured people.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 34, priority vehicles and national exemptions; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example

What should you do when an ambulance approaches?

Make space safely for an ambulance on an emergency response, following the local rules and any lawful directions. Slow down or stop where necessary without sudden or dangerous movements. Do not assume that its emergency status allows you to pass a red light or disregard another traffic control.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 34, priority vehicles and national exemptions; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example

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.

🔗 wetten.overheid.nl • Vienna Convention on Road Traffic, Article 34, priority vehicles and national exemptions; international framework subject to national law

🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 219, emergency vehicles; national guidance example

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