§ 21706 Emergency Vehicle Following Distance

Vehicle Code·California

AI SummaryVerified

This law says you can't drive too close behind an emergency vehicle like an ambulance or fire truck when they're using their sirens and lights.

Key Takeaways

•Stay far behind emergency vehicles when their lights and sirens are on.
•300 feet is about the length of a football field—keep that much space.
•Police or traffic officers can drive closer if they're escorting the emergency vehicle.

Example

You're driving on the highway and see an ambulance with its lights and sirens on.

You must stay at least 300 feet behind it. If you drive closer, you could get a ticket.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source

View on CA.gov

§ 21706 Emergency Vehicle Following Distance

No motor vehicle, except an authorized emergency vehicle, shall follow within 300 feet of any authorized emergency vehicle being operated under the provisions of Section 21055. This section shall not apply to a police or traffic officer when serving as an escort within the purview of Section 21057. (Amended by Stats. 1972, Ch. 46.)

Last verified: January 9, 2026

Key Terms

authorized emergency vehicle 300 feet Section 21055 Section 21057

References

Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
California Legislature. Vehicle Code. Section 21706.

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References

Key Takeaways

Example

Key Terms

Related Statutes

References