(7)2.1 First Responder Exemptions

(7)2.1 First Responder Exemptions

This section offers exemptions to first responders for emergency responses for Title 7 of this code. This section shall be liberally construed as promoting public safety, peace, and accountability.

(7)2.1.1 Scope

An authorized first responder, operating an emergency vehicle equipped for emergency responses, is authorized under certain circumstances in accordance with this section to temporarily bypass traffic laws and other restrictions for the purposes of preserving life, property, and peace, provided such actions are conducted safely and responsibly.

(7)2.1.2 Life Saving Measures

(a) A first responder may bypass traffic laws if such action is immediately necessary to provide life-saving care or emergency response.

(b) Such exemptions apply only to the extent reasonably necessary to prevent death or serious injury.

(c) Responders must exercise due caution to avoid creating undue risk to the public while exercising this exemption.

(7)2.1.3 Serious Felonies

(a) A first responder may bypass traffic laws if reasonably necessary to apprehend a suspect of a serious felony.

(b) Such actions must be conducted in a manner that balances urgency with the safety of the public, the responder, and any third parties.

(c) Exemptions under this subsection do not grant authority to use excessive force or violate other applicable laws unrelated to emergency response.

(d) For purposes of this subsection, "serious felony" means any felony crime in which there is a substantial danger to the public or any other person.

(7)2.1.4 Risk of Future Harm

(a) A first responder may bypass traffic laws if reasonably necessary to prevent substantial future harm to individuals or the public.

(b) Such preventive actions must be proportional to the risk and performed with care to minimize additional hazards.

(c) This subsection is intended to allow intervention in situations where immediate action could avert serious consequences, while still maintaining overall public safety.

(7)2.1.5 Limitations and Accountability

(a) Exemptions under this section do not authorize reckless, negligent, or unlawful conduct.

(b) Actions taken pursuant to this section must balance urgency with the safety of the public, the responder, and any third parties.

(c) Use of exemptions may be subject to review under applicable accountability procedures, including internal reports, investigations, or disciplinary measures if misused.

(7)2.1.6 Reporting Requirements

(a) Any use of traffic law or operational exemptions under this section must be documented by the responding first responder.

(b) Documentation should include:

1. The nature of the emergency.
2. Actions taken and the reasons for bypassing standard procedures.
3. Outcome of the response.

(c) Documentation shall be submitted to the responder’s supervising authority within a reasonable time frame following the incident.

(7)2.1.7 Emergency Scope Limit

(a) Exemptions apply only while actively responding to the emergency or situation that triggered their use.

(b) Exemptions end once the emergency is resolved, the responder is no longer en route to the scene, or normal operational conditions are restored.

(c) Any actions taken outside the defined scope of an emergency are subject to normal traffic laws and legal obligations.