The Waterloo Police Department wants to pass on some reminders to the motoring public about what they are required to do when an emergency vehicle approaches them with it’s emergency lights, or it’s emergency lights and siren activated.  Emergency vehicles include law enforcement, fire and ambulances.

Drivers shall yield the right-of-way and shall immediately drive to a position parallel to, and as close as possible to, the right-hand edge or curb of the street or highway, clear of any intersection, and shall stop and remain in such position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed, or when directed to move by a law enforcement officer.  Violators are subject to a citation and a fine of $195.00.

The motoring public is also reminded about Iowa’s “move over” law, which requires drivers to use due caution and move into the next lane of traffic when approaching a stationary authorized emergency vehicle that is displaying flashing yellow, amber, white, red, or red and blue lights.  Emergency vehicles for this purpose not only include law enforcement, fire and ambulances, but also tow trucks, highway maintenance vehicles, utility vehicles and city/county maintenance vehicles.  Violators are subject to a citation and a fine of $195.00

Recently, law enforcement officers, as well as firefighters and paramedics, have noticed an increase in these types of violations.  The intent is to remind the motoring public of these requirements not only for their well-being, but also for the well-being of all public safety personnel.

Captain John Beckman
Waterloo Police Department
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319-291-4383