When driving an ambulance under "Code 3", what should the driver be cautious of?

When driving an ambulance under "Code 3," which denotes an emergency response requiring the use of lights and sirens, it is essential for the driver to be particularly cautious about specific driving behaviors to ensure safety for both the ambulance crew and the public.

The correct focus is on avoiding passing vehicles on the right. This caution is significant because many drivers may not be aware that an emergency vehicle is approaching, leading them to potentially make sudden moves to the left or change lanes unexpectedly. By passing on the left, where the driver's field of vision is usually clearer, the ambulance operator can better avoid collisions and ensure a safer, more predictable driving path.

While having the siren on at all times and displaying a flashing red warning lamp are both important aspects of emergency vehicle operation, they are not the primary caution points. The siren alerts other drivers, and the flashing lights are meant to gain attention and signal the need to pull over. However, understanding that the siren alone does not guarantee that other drivers will act safely is crucial. Being aware of the dynamics of roadway behavior during an emergency response is imperative for the safe operation of the ambulance.