To The Editor:
I volunteer as an EMT with the Mad River Valley Ambulance Service. Last week I responded to a medical emergency for a patient suffering from a possible stroke. As I traveled north on Route 100 with my red light flashing, few motorists pulled to the right and one driver even refused to yield. I tried unsuccessfully to get his attention by honking my horn and flashing my lights as I attempted to pass. This same driver then followed me to the ambulance station and left a crude and colorful critique of my driving while I was out on the call.
I would like to take this opportunity to clarify how motorists should respond when they see a red light coming up from behind. Section 1050 of the Vermont vehicular code states: “Upon the approach of an ambulance, fire apparatus, a vehicle operated by a volunteer firefighter, EMS personnel, or a motor vehicle used in rescue operations as set forth in section 1252 of this title which is sounding a siren or displaying a red signal lamp, or both, all other vehicles shall pull to the right of the lane of traffic and come to a complete stop until the law enforcement or emergency vehicle has passed.”
The penalty for failure to yield is five points plus a fine of up to $1,197. But we all suffer a more serious penalty when our friends and loved ones have to wait for emergency care. Thanks in advance for pulling over when you see a red light.
Mark Giometti
Warren
