What are the laws about horns and sirens?

In North Carolina, the use of horns and sirens is regulated by the state’s General Statutes, which set out the different types of vehicles that are permitted to use them, as well as the conditions and situations under which they may be used. Generally, the use of horns and sirens is limited to public safety vehicles, such as police, fire, and emergency service vehicles. These vehicles may use horns and sirens to alert others to their presence, to warn other drivers of a hazardous situation, or to signal drivers to move out of their way. In addition to the vehicles listed above, North Carolina law also permits the use of horns and sirens on certain types of vehicles, such as funeral processions, ambulances, and vehicles carrying hazardous materials. It is important to note that in these cases, the horns and sirens must be used only to alert others about their presence, and not to intimidate or disrupt other motorists. Generally, the use of horns and sirens is prohibited in residential areas, unless it is absolutely necessary to alert drivers of a potential danger, such as an approaching emergency vehicle. Furthermore, the sounding of a horn or siren in a manner that is likely to frighten people, disturb the peace, or cause extreme irritation is strictly prohibited. Finally, even in cases when horns and sirens are permissible, North Carolina law states that they may not be used consecutively for more than one minute, or intermittently for more than five minutes. By following these rules and regulations, drivers can help ensure that horns and sirens are used responsibly and appropriately.

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