Can you proceed against traffic during an emergency response?

The correct approach during an emergency response is to proceed using due regard for the safety of all road users. This means that while emergency responders have greater legal leeway to navigate traffic rules—such as proceeding through red lights or against traffic—they must always ensure that they do so safely. Due regard obligates responders to balance the urgency of their response with the need to minimize risk to themselves, their crew, and the public.

This principle is important because emergency responders are often faced with high-stress situations that require quick decision-making while still adhering to safety protocols. For example, when responding to an emergency, making quick progress towards the scene might necessitate unconventional driving maneuvers; however, evaluating the situation and ensuring that such maneuvers do not pose undue danger remains paramount.

The other options, while they might address aspects of emergency driving, do not encapsulate the broader requirement for due regard, which is essential in ensuring both rapid response and community safety.