Drivers risk being hit with massive £2,500 fine and licence points for letting an ambulance pass

This is outlined in Rule 219 of the Highway Code which states that drivers should look and listen for emergency service vehicles when on the road.

Drivers will be aware of their presence because of flashing blue, red, green or amber lights, as well as loud sirens, designed to alert road users to their location.

Do you have a story you'd like to share? Get in touch by emailingmotoring@gbnews.uk

Motorists are encouraged to consider the route of the vehicle and take appropriate action to let it get past, while complying with all traffic signs.

According to experts, motorists could be fined £2,500, given a driving disqualification and handed penalty points for moving out of the way for a blue light vehicle in the wrong circumstances

Tim Alcock, from LeaseCar.uk, said: “Many motorists in the UK will be shocked to find out they risk eye-watering fines for letting an emergency vehicle pass.

“With the best intentions, it is most people's instinct to move out of the way when they hear sirens so ambulance drivers, firefighters and police officers can get to an emergency quickly.

“We are not saying for one minute not to move for emergency vehicles but please ensure it's done safely and within the law.”

The Highway Code states that motorists should not endanger themselves or other road users when moving out of the way, and should not mount the pavement.

It adds that people should not brake harshly on approach to a junction or roundabout, as a following vehicle may not have the same view as them.

Alcock added that drivers who move out of the way of ambulances or other emergency service vehicles could be hit with a fine.

The expert stated that this would be for careless or dangerous driving, which can also lead to motorists receiving penalty points on their driving licence.

He continued, saying: “For example, moving through a red light for an emergency vehicle is a traffic light offence and could land drivers with a discretionary disqualification or hefty fine because it could lead to a crash.

“This may sound ridiculous and unfair, but anyone found to be endangering themselves or other road users will be punished for breaking the law if caught out.

LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:

• Major new fuels 'clearly going to part of the solution' for older petrol and diesel cars
  
• Cyclists could face up to 14 years in prison under tough new traffic rules replacing 'Victorian-era law'
• Major car brands could miss vital electric vehicle targets - 'We need to give people a reason to buy EVs!'

“Getting stuck with a blue light vehicle behind you is stressful, but it is important to keep a cool head and always follow the rules of the road to avoid being stung with avoidable fines.”