Ask Pete

[#1]

While waiting in traffic due to a collision on I-4 recently, I was amazed at the number of drivers passing traffic on the shoulder of the road in order to avoid waiting in the jam. It seemed that once one person did it, others were soon to follow. I was even more amazed at the one individual who pulled out in front of an ambulance that was on its way to the scene.

I’m sure there could be an extenuating circumstance that provides a plausible reason for someone to use this as a travel lane in that situation—such as off-duty Fire/Rescue or off-duty law enforcement—but these folks just made their way up the road and got off at the next exit or did a U-turn in the median. I would hate to think that help was delayed to one of my loved ones because the emergency lane was blocked by a vehicle looking to make a U-turn or just wanting to avoid waiting in traffic.

According to local law enforcement, anyone caught blocking an emergency lane is subject to a fine of around $150. The charge would be “failure to stay in the proper lane,” which is considered a moving violation that carries four points against your license.

Remember the basic rules when an emergency vehicle is approaching! Safely pull to the right, slow down significantly or stop, and allow the vehicle to pass. Re-enter traffic when safe to do so. You never know who could be on the receiving end of the help that’s on its way!   

[#2]

That kind of behavior is pretty shocking! Those same people would probably be angry if emergency vehicles were late to their own accident.... I've seen people do this as well. I've seen others fail to pull to the side and make the emergency vehicle weave through the traffic. Unbelievable!

[#3]

It is indeed sad....we live in a ME  ME  ME Society. Sadly, offsprings of  the  ME ME ME's follow in  parents footsteps. However, a ray of hope lies with those who wait in line. Possibly, turn off the engine (conserving gas)...might even have conversation with someone else who decided to wait.  Just never know...some  friendships last a lifetime.