The driver of an “authorized emergency vehicle,”
as defined in V.T.C.A., Transportation Code 541.201, 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 herein stated.
(1)
The driver of an authorized emergency vehicle may:
(A)
Park or stand, irrespective of the provisions of this chapter.
(B)
Proceed past a stop signal or stop sign, but only after slowing down
as may be necessary for safe operation.
(C)
Exceed the maximum speed limits so long as he does not endanger life
or property; however, in no event shall an ambulance operating as
an authorized emergency vehicle exceed a speed of ten miles per hour
greater than the authorized posted speed limit on the route of travel
of such ambulance.
(D)
Disregard regulations governing direction of movement or turning
in specified directions.
(2)
The foregoing provisions of this section shall not relieve the driver
of an authorized emergency vehicle from the duty to drive with due
regard for the safety of all persons, nor shall such provisions protect
the driver from the consequences of his reckless disregard for the
safety of others.
(1984 Code, sec. 8-2-6; 1993 Code,
sec. 70.01; 2006 Code, sec. 78-1; Ordinance 164, sec. 6, adopted 4/6/81; Ordinance adopting 2015 Code)
(a)
This section applies to a roadway or street within the corporate
limits of the city, including a state-maintained roadway.
(b)
A person may not use an engine brake or engine retarder to assist
in slowing or braking a motor vehicle, except for an emergency vehicle
engaged in emergency duties.
(2006 Code, sec. 78-2; Ordinance
07-01-709, sec. 2, adopted 1/16/07)
