Minnesota Permit Practice Test

When encountering emergency vehicles that are stopped on the side of the road with their lights flashing, drivers are required to maintain a safe distance. The correct distance is 500 feet. This regulation is in place to ensure the safety of emergency personnel who may be working near the roadside. By keeping a distance of 500 feet, you provide a buffer zone that minimizes the risk of an accident. This distance allows for safer navigation past the emergency situation without impeding their work and ensures that any unexpected actions can be reacted to effectively.

In marked situations, such as when a police car, fire truck, or ambulance has its lights flashing, drivers should also consider slowing down or changing lanes away from the emergency vehicle, if safe to do so. This provides additional space and safety for both the emergency responders and other drivers.

The other options suggest shorter distances, which do not align with the specific guidelines set for the safety of emergency personnel and the general public. It’s important to remember that these distances can vary by state or locality, but 500 feet is a commonly enforced standard in many areas, including Minnesota.