Operators of emergency vessels - Exercise of certain privileges.

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A. The operator of an emergency vessel, when responding to an emergency call, when in the pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law, or when responding to but not upon returning from a response to an emergency situation, may exercise the privilege set forth in this section, subject to the conditions set forth in subsection B of this section.

B. The operator of an emergency vessel may:

1. Park, moor or beach the vessel irrespective of the provisions of this title;

2. Proceed past a restrictive buoy, but only after slowing down as may be necessary for safe operation;

3. Exceed the maximum speed or wake limits so long as that action does not endanger life or property; and

4. Disregard rules governing direction of movement or turning in specified directions.

C. The exemptions granted in this section shall apply only when an emergency vessel is making use of audible and visual signals meeting the requirements of Section 4207 of this title.

D. The provisions of this section shall not relieve the operator of an emergency vessel from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons or protect the driver from the consequences of reckless disregard for the safety of others.

Added by Laws 1997, c. 199, § 2, eff. Nov. 1, 1997.


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