What should drivers do to ensure their safety while approaching intersections during an emergency?

Choosing to slow down and check surroundings is essential for ensuring safety while approaching intersections during an emergency. Intersections can be unpredictable environments, with a variety of potential hazards, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Slowing down gives drivers more time to assess the situation and to react appropriately to any unexpected movements from other road users.

This approach allows emergency vehicle operators to verify that the intersection is clear and to identify any vehicles that may not yield, even if they are supposed to. While it can be tempting to maintain speed to arrive at the scene as quickly as possible, safety must be prioritized to avoid collisions that could endanger the driver and others on the road.

Maintaining a cautious speed allows for better control of the vehicle and enhances the driver's ability to respond to sudden challenges — understanding that not all drivers will yield as expected helps in making informed decisions. This principle of defensive driving is critical in emergency situations where the risks are heightened.