Under Texas law, what must drivers do when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with flashing lights?

When approaching a stopped emergency vehicle with its flashing lights activated, Texas law requires drivers to either change lanes away from the emergency vehicle, if it is safe to do so, or to slow down. This law is designed to provide a buffer zone around emergency responders who may be working in that area, ensuring their safety as well as the safety of other road users.

Changing lanes helps to physically distance the moving vehicle from the emergency responders, while slowing down reduces the risk of accidents due to reduced vehicle speed in that zone. This practice reflects the importance placed on protecting those who are rendering assistance or addressing emergencies on the roadway.

The other options do not align with the legal expectations set forth in Texas law regarding interactions with emergency vehicles. Speeding up could endanger both the driver and the emergency personnel, while ignoring the vehicle or only stopping if signaled fails to recognize the proactive safety measures required by law.