(a) Every operator of a vehicle shall stop at and before the red, circular lights established at the intersections of Harding Way E. at Murray and Midblock (100) S. Liberty Street while such lights are operating in order to permit the safe passage of fire equipment, and such operator shall not proceed through such intersections unless directed to so proceed by a police officer or fire officer, or until such fire light ceases to operate.
(b) Except as otherwise provided in this subsection, whoever violates this section is guilty of a minor misdemeanor. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to one predicate motor vehicle or traffic offense, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the fourth degree. If, within one year of the offense, the offender previously has been convicted of two or more predicate motor vehicle or traffic offenses, whoever violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor of the third degree.