Which code section authorizes red or red and white warning lights on fire apparatus, rescue vehicles, and ambulances?

• A. Virginia Code § 46.2-1024
• B. Virginia Code § 46.2-920
• C. Virginia Code § 46.2-844
• D. Virginia Code § 46.2-1023

Answer: (D)

Red warning signals are the standard cue that a vehicle is in an emergency mode and needs to be seen and given priority by other drivers. Virginia Code § 46.2-1023 specifically authorizes fire apparatus, rescue vehicles, and ambulances to display red, or red and white, warning lights to indicate an emergency response or active incident. This section sets who may use these colors and under what circumstances, ensuring these key responders are clearly identifiable on the road so approaching motorists can yield safely and quickly. The white element, when used with red, helps increase visibility in various lighting conditions and can aid in illuminating the scene or the area around the vehicle. Since this statute targets these exact vehicle types and their signaling colors, it is the authoritative provision for red or red-and-white warning lights on those emergency responders.