Alberta Written Drivers Learners Test Practice

What is the speed limit when passing a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights?

1. 30 km/h unless otherwise posted

2. 50 km/h unless otherwise posted

3. 60 km/h unless otherwise posted

4. 70 km/h unless otherwise posted

The correct answer is: 60 km/h unless otherwise posted

When passing a stopped emergency vehicle that has its flashing lights activated, there is a specific speed limit designed to ensure the safety of both emergency responders and motorists. The correct limit is 60 km/h unless otherwise posted. This limit is implemented to provide a reasonable buffer for the safety of personnel who may be working in proximity to moving traffic. It acknowledges that while drivers need to reduce their speed to maintain safety, they also need to ensure that the flow of traffic is not excessively interrupted, which can lead to dangerous situations in heavy traffic environments. While the posted speed limit may vary in other circumstances, such as in construction zones or areas with different regulated speeds, the critical point is maintaining a speed of no more than 60 km/h when passing these emergency vehicles regardless of the prevailing conditions unless otherwise indicated. This regulation is established to balance safety with the practical need for vehicles to navigate around incidents without excessive delay.