Arizona Move Over: Stopped Warning Lights and Approaching Emergency Vehicles

A stopped vehicle with warning lights and an emergency vehicle coming through traffic require different decisions in Arizona. Look far ahead so you have room to act safely.

Passing a stopped vehicle with flashing or warning lights

The rule covers a stationary vehicle displaying alternating flashing lights or warning lights, not only police vehicles. On a highway with at least four lanes and two or more in your direction, cautiously move to a lane that is not next to the stopped vehicle when traffic and safety permit.

If changing lanes is impossible or unsafe, slow to a safe speed for the conditions and pass with care. A road with no available second lane calls for slowing and caution, not driving into opposing traffic. Arizona’s statute does not give a universal “20 mph below” formula for this rule.

Check mirrors and blind spots before moving. Leave room for people near the stopped vehicle and watch for opening doors. Ordinary hazard lights on a stopped private car deserve attention too.

An emergency vehicle approaches with lights and siren

Yield, move as close as safely possible to the right edge or curb, clear of an intersection, and stop until it passes, unless a police officer directs otherwise. If already in the intersection, clear it before stopping.

Do not follow responding fire apparatus within 500 feet, unless on official business. This is a different rule from the lane change beside a stationary vehicle.

Compare the situations

• A car with hazards is stopped on the right shoulder and the left lane is safely available: check traffic and move left to give space.
• A stopped vehicle is ahead but another car occupies your adjacent lane: slow and pass cautiously; do not force a lane change.
• A responding ambulance approaches with lights and siren: pull right and stop clear of the intersection.

Practice these decisions with a supervising driver. The road-test guide also covers yielding and safe vehicle control.

Official sources

Reviewed October 30, 2026. A.R.S. § 28-775, Arizona DPS Move Over guidance and ADOT Driver License Manual.