The provisions of this traffic code regulating the operation, parking and standing of vehicles, shall apply to authorized emergency vehicles except as follows.
(A) A driver when operating such vehicle in an emergency, except when otherwise directed by a police officer, may:
(1) Park or stand notwithstanding the provisions of this traffic code;
(2) Proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign, but only after slowing down as may be necessary for safe operation;
(3) Exceed the speed limits so long as he or she does not endanger life or property; and
(4) Disregard regulations governing directions of movement or turning in specified directions as long as he or she does not endanger life or property.
(B) These exceptions shall apply only when the driver of the vehicle sounds a siren, bell or exhaust whistle as may be reasonably necessary, and the vehicle displays a lighted red lamp visible from the front as a warning to others.
(C) These exceptions shall not, however, protect the driver of any such vehicle from the consequences of his or her reckless disregard of the safety of others.
(1979 Code, § 70.41) (Ord. 1477, passed 8-2-1950) Penalty, see § 70.999