Does an Empty Ambulance Still Get Priority on the Road? Here's the Explanation

DEPOK, KOMPAS.com - A case involving a motorcyclist obstructing an empty ambulance while it was heading to pick up an accident victim in Depok has drawn public attention. This incident has raised the question of whether an ambulance still receives road priority even when empty. The event occurred on Moch Nail Street, Bakti Jaya Ward, Sukmajaya Subdistrict, Depok City, on Sunday (10/5/2026). At the time, the ambulance was en route to the location to collect the traffic accident patient. However, the vehicle was blocked by a motorcyclist with initials ML, allegedly disturbed by the siren sound. The case went viral on social media after a dispute between the motorcyclist and ambulance staff escalated to alleged vehicle damage. These provisions are regulated under Article 134 of Law No. 22 of 2009 on Road Traffic and Transportation. Additionally, Article 135 stipulates that priority vehicles may use sirens and specific signal lights while on duty. In certain conditions, priority vehicles such as ambulances may also pass through without following traffic lights, as long as the safety of other road users is maintained. An empty ambulance still obtains priority if it is travelling to pick up a patient or carrying out other emergency duties. However, this must be accountable and ideally coordinated with the police. The legal basis refers to Article 134 letter g of the Road Traffic Law regarding vehicles for specific purposes according to the consideration of police officers. Ambulance drivers must avoid reasons not justified by law, such as claiming to pick up a sick person when it is untrue or false. Furthermore, the improper use of sirens and priority facilities can constitute a legal violation.