If you’re driving and an ambulance needs to get past you, your first instinct will naturally be to pull over as soon as possible.
But stopping in a way that breaks the law - for example, in a bus lane, through a red light or yellow box junction - could see you slapped with a hefty fine.
“CCTV cameras are increasingly being used to fine motorists for offences such as these – especially in city centres,” said the RAC.
“The RAC is warning that getting out of the way for an ambulance, police car or fire engine won’t exempt you from paying fines.
“As an example, you could be hit with a fixed penalty notice for £100 and three penalty points on your licence for jumping a red light.”
If it goes to court, the penalty could be even bigger.
What should you do if an ambulance needs to pass?
The most important thing is not to panic. You should only pull over when it is safe to do so and while complying to the rules of the road.
Rule 219 of the Highway Code says: "Consider the route of such a vehicle and take appropriate action to let it pass, while complying with all traffic signs.
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"If necessary, pull to the side of the road and stop, but try to avoid stopping before the brow of a hill, a bend or narrow section of road.
"Do not endanger yourself, other road users or pedestrians and avoid mounting the kerb.
"Do not brake harshly on approach to a junction or roundabout, as a following vehicle may not have the same view as you.”
Can you appeal a traffic fine?
If you’ve been sent a fine that you feel is unfair, you may be able to appeal it - but you’ll need to have clear evidence first.
It also isn't guaranteed that simply stopping to allow an ambulance to pass will get you off the hook.
How you appeal depends on what type of ticket and fine you received. There should be information on the ticket or fine letter that explains the appeal process.
For example, a bus lane fine would normally require you to contact your local council. With these types of fines, you normally have 28 days to appeal it.
It is important to respond one way or another to any sort of traffic fine - whether you intend on paying it or appealing it - as the case could escalate to court.
The fines that can be imposed by the courts if you’re found guilty are much greater than the original fixed penalty.
John Wilmot, CEO, car leasing comparison site LeaseLoco, said: "There isn't anything in the Highway Code that says you can break the law if you're getting out of the way for an ambulance.
"Unless you have clear evidence, such as video footage, which can be offered in mitigation, simply saying you were giving way to an emergency vehicle won’t be enough for a fine to be waived."
