(A) The provisions of this chapter regulating the operation, parking and standing of vehicles shall also apply to authorized emergency vehicles, but unless otherwise directed by a police officer, a driver when operating any vehicle in an emergency 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; 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 protect the driver of any vehicle from the consequences of his or her reckless disregard for the safety of others.
(1977 Code, § 17-5)