(a) In General. The driver of an 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, but subject to the conditions stated in this section.
(b) Exercise of Special Privileges. The driver of an emergency vehicle may:
(1) Park or stand, irrespective of the provisions of this Traffic Code;
(2) Proceed past a red signal indication or stop sign, but only after slowing down as may be necessary for safe operation, except as provided in subsection (d) hereof;
(3) Exceed the maximum speed limits so long as the driver does not endanger life or property, except as provided in subsection (d) hereof; and
(4) Disregard regulations governing direction of movement or turning in specified directions.
(c) Audible and Visual Signals Required. The privileges granted in this section to an emergency vehicle shall apply only when the vehicle is making use of an audible signal and visual signals meeting the requirements and standards set forth in regulations adopted by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, except that an emergency vehicle operated as a police vehicle need not be equipped with or display the visual signals.
(d) Ambulances and Blood Delivery Vehicles. The driver of an ambulance or blood delivery vehicle shall comply with maximum speed limits, red signal indications and stop signs. After ascertaining that the ambulance or blood delivery vehicle will be given the right of way, the driver may proceed through a red signal indication or stop sign.
(e) Exercise of Care. This section does not relieve the driver of an emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons.
(Ord. 4-78. Passed 2-22-78.)