The provisions of this traffic code regulating the movement or parking of vehicles shall not apply to emergency vehicles while the driver thereof is engaged in the performance of emergency duties. Nor shall such provisions apply to persons actually engaged in repairing or otherwise improving the streets under the authority of the City Commission, the state, or Kenton County. The foregoing exemption shall not protect the driver of any such vehicle from the consequences of his reckless disregard of the safety of others.
('78 Code, 520.5, § I)