What is required of emergency vehicle drivers at intersections controlled by a stop sign?

The correct understanding of emergency vehicle operations at intersections controlled by a stop sign emphasizes the need for both caution and a quick response to potential emergencies. While the law may vary by jurisdiction, emergency vehicle drivers are typically required to come to a complete stop when approaching a stop sign, regardless of light traffic or the state of the intersection.

However, option B highlights a common operational practice in emergency driving: if the intersection is clear of other vehicles or pedestrians, emergency vehicle drivers may proceed without stopping. This allows them to respond more rapidly to emergencies. That said, it remains imperative for these drivers to assess the intersection carefully before proceeding, ensuring safety while balancing the urgency of their response.

The other options address practices that do not align with the regulations governing emergency response vehicles at stop control intersections. For example, the notion of accelerating without a full stop, while it may seem expedient, ignores critical safety protocols that require verification of clear pathways before moving through an intersection.