The provisions of this traffic code regulating the operation, parking and standing of vehicles shall also apply to AUTHORIZED EMERGENCY VEHICLES, as defined in this chapter, except as follows.
(A) Unless otherwise directed by a police officer, a driver when operating such vehicle in an emergency 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 prima facie speed limit so long as he or she does not endanger life or property; and/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 any vehicle from the consequences of his or her reckless disregard for the safety of others.
(Code 2019, § 13-4)
Statutory reference:
Exemption from right-of-way rules, see G.S. § 20-156
Exemption from speed limits, see G.S. § 20-145
Operation of vehicle on approach of emergency vehicle, see G.S. § 20-157