(A) The provisions of this chapter regulating the operation, parking and standing of vehicles shall apply to authorized emergency vehicles, as defined in this chapter, except as follows. A driver, when operating such a vehicle in any emergency, except when otherwise directed by a police officer, may:
(1) Park or stand, notwithstanding the provisions of this chapter;
(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 prima facie speed limits so long as he or she does not endanger life or property; or
(4) Disregard regulations governing direction of movement, or turning in specified directions so long as he or she does not endanger life or property.
(B) The foregoing exemptions shall not, however, protect the driver of the vehicle from the consequences of his or her reckless disregard of the safety of others.
(1940 Code, Ch. G, Art. III, § 5)