Emergency vehicles causing car crashes

Figures from a car insurance agency suggest that as many as 10 road accidents a week are being caused by drivers reacting poorly to the sirens and flashing lights of emergency services vehicles.

The data, collected by NRMA Insurance, has prompted calls for drivers not to panic when they hear sirens while driving.

Steve Beatty from NRMA Insurance says drivers have to be more aware of their surroundings.

"Don't panic, stay calm," he said.

"It really isn't about any erratic sort of behaviour at all. It really is about responding very, very calmly to people who are doing their job."