Quint Blows Red Light

An Apparatus Operator fails to check the intersection at a stop light responding to a call - perfect example of what not to do as a D/O. This video is originally from TheBravestOnline.com - and made its way to me through another site's discussion on safely driving apparatus.

I have disabled comments on this video due to the venom and anger that some posted within the previous 900 comments (I deleted about 150 of them as well). Those who disagree with checking the intersection before proceeding, you're wrong - there is not an area of the country where failing to check the intersection in an emergency vehicle will absolve the D/O of fault if an apparatus vs. vehicle collision occurs. You don't need to try and disprove this, it's fact and I would need to see something beyond your opinion or a local memo to change that statement.

In New Jersey, where I have been both a career and volunteer firefighter for a number of years - the applicable law is Title 39:4-91, and while Section A does state that we have the right of way over civilian traffic - Section B expressly states "This section shall not relieve the driver of any authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons, nor shall it protect the driver from the consequences of his reckless disregard for the safety of others. Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit any immunity or defense otherwise provided by law."

I would like to apologize to those who posted comments that were constructive or part of what was an excellent discussion. Remember: things like this will kill a civilian - and the reaction won't be "I can't believe he didn't see that big red truck" - the newspapers will read "Firefighters kill Family" and crucify us to no end, because we are held to a higher standard as guardians of public safety.

Category:

Autos & Vehicles

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• fire
• truck
• quint
• red
• light
• bravest
• online
• apparatus
• close
• call