When should officers NEVER pass to the right?

Officers should never pass to the right when emergency devices on the law enforcement vehicle are activated because doing so can create dangerous situations for both the officer and other motorists. Activated emergency lights indicate that the vehicle is in a position of authority, often directing other drivers to yield or make space for the responding officer. Passing on the right could cause confusion among drivers who are trying to comply with the emergency vehicle's signals, potentially leading to collisions or accidents.

Emergency vehicles are often positioned on the roadway in a manner that optimizes visibility and safety, and passing on the right could place officers in proximity to hazards, including traffic flow or pedestrians who may be attempting to cross. Thus, the safety protocols during emergency response highly advise against passing on the right to ensure overall safety on the road. Any other context, such as whether lights are on or the nature of the area, does not override the critical importance of ensuring clear and safe passage when responding to emergencies.