Special Driving Situations prepares you for the moments that don't happen every day but matter most: emergency vehicles, police stops, skids and breakdowns, crashes, and getting the most from your fuel. The theme running through all of it is simple—stay calm, think clearly, and act safely, because you often have only seconds to react.
When an emergency vehicle approaches with lights or siren, pull as far to the right as you safely can and stop; never pull left or slam on the brakes, and never stop in the middle of an intersection. If you're stopped by police, pull completely to the right, put the car in park, turn off the engine, keep your hands in view, and wait for the officer to ask before reaching for your license or registration.
This section also walks you through emergencies and crashes. In a skid, ease off the gas and steer in the direction the vehicle is sliding rather than braking hard. If you're in a crash—even a minor one—you must stop and never leave the scene, exchange information, and report serious crashes to the police and the RMV. You'll also pick up simple habits, like gentle acceleration, that save fuel and wear.
What should I do when an emergency vehicle comes up behind me?⌄
Signal, pull as close to the right as you safely can, and stop. Don't pull to the left or brake suddenly, and if you're in an intersection, drive through it first and then pull over when it's safe.
What do I do during a traffic stop?⌄
Pull all the way to the right—never the left—and stop in a safe spot, not in an intersection or travel lane. Put the car in park, turn off the engine, keep your hands where the officer can see them, and wait to be asked before reaching for your documents.
How should I handle a skid?⌄
Ease your foot off the gas and don't hit the brakes; steer gently in the same direction the back of the car is sliding. Staying calm and making smooth, small corrections is what brings the vehicle back under control.