(A) The driver of an authorized emergency vehicle, when responding to an emergency call, or when in the pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law, or when responding to, but not upon returning from, a fire alarm, may exercise the privileges set forth in this section, subject to the conditions herein stated.
(B) The driver of an authorized emergency vehicle may park or stand, irrespective of the provisions of this title; proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign, but only after slowing down as may be necessary for safe operation; exceed the maximum speed limit and disregard regulations governing direction of movement or turning in specified directions so long as he or she does not endanger life or property.
(C) The exemptions herein granted for an authorized emergency vehicle shall apply only when the vehicle is making use of audible and visual signals meeting the requirements of the applicable laws of the state; except that, while parked or standing, an authorized emergency vehicle shall only be required to make use of visual signals meeting the requirements of the applicable laws of the state.
(D) The foregoing provisions shall not relieve the driver of an authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons, nor shall the provisions protect the driver from the consequences of his or her reckless disregard for the safety of others.
(1989 Code, § 15-202, modified)