The Guyana Police Force Traffic Department is reminding all road users that it is both unlawful and dangerous to ignore the right-of-way requirements for emergency vehicles. This includes vehicles belonging to the Guyana Fire Service, the Police, and Ambulance Services, especially when they are responding to emergencies and operating with sirens, flashing beacon lights, or other emergency signals.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Department emphasised that failure to yield to these vehicles not only endangers lives but also obstructs crucial emergency response efforts. It cited the Road Traffic (Guyana Fire Service) Order, made under Section 49 of the Motor Vehicle and Road Traffic Act (Chapter 51:02), which outlines the responsibilities of drivers in such situations.
According to the law, drivers are required to pull over and stop as near as possible to the left side of the road and remain stationary when an emergency vehicle is approaching. This is particularly critical during nighttime hours when drivers are also expected to dip or dim their headlights until the emergency vehicle has passed.
On dual carriageways, the law is clear that vehicles must stop on both sides of the roadway and remain stationary until the emergency vehicle has completely passed. Furthermore, it is strictly prohibited for any motorist to follow or trail an emergency vehicle after it has passed. Doing so not only violates traffic regulations but can also impede emergency operations and put multiple road users at risk.
The Department expressed concern over a rising trend in which drivers deliberately follow closely behind emergency vehicles in an effort to manoeuvre through traffic congestion. Authorities have condemned this practice, warning that it:
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Jeopardises road safety
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Obstructs emergency services in critical situations
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Constitutes a violation of traffic laws
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Exposes offenders to arrest and prosecution, including possible suspension of their driver’s licence
Despite previous warnings, the Police continue to observe this reckless behaviour and are urging drivers to take the rules seriously. The Traffic Department advises motorists to stay alert and give way to emergency vehicles by pulling safely to the left and stopping. Drivers are also warned not to attempt to follow emergency vehicles once they pass and to avoid sudden lane changes or actions that could block access routes.
The public is reminded that adherence to these rules is not optional, but a legal requirement that could make the difference between life and death during an emergency response.