The hidden danger: intersections and emergency vehicles
The consequences of inattention, impatience, or law violations at intersections can be catastrophic, particularly when collisions involve fire trucks and other emergency responders. These large, fast-moving vehicles can travel with lights and sirens activated, yet their visibility and sound cues can sometimes go unnoticed by distracted or negligent drivers. Some of these distractions include texting while driving, involvement in important phone calls, loud music, and fatigue. When a fire truck is proceeding through an intersection and a distracted driver fails to yield, the risk of a high-impact, multi-vehicle crash skyrockets. Intersection safety is everyone’s responsibility. By paying attention, obeying traffic laws, and yielding to emergency responders, drivers can help prevent tragedies involving fire trucks and other emergency vehicles.