Ambulance accident: Who was at fault?

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Updated: 7/24/2012 7:06 pm
JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Police say Friday, a Liberty Ambulance ran through a red light, on its way to a call. The lights and sires were on, but Anneliese Belzer ventured out anyway.

The question is, who had the right-of-way? We sat down with Florida Highway Patrol to find out.

"Statute requires us as well as local policy requires us to use "due care" when operating with lights and sirens," Lt. Justin Asbury said.

FHP goes above and beyond that. Troopers are required to make a complete stop at a red light intersection before proceeding.

Asbury says the public has a role to play as well.

"Constantly be attentive, checking your mirrors every couple of seconds, just scanning out in front of you, looking around at what's ahead. Just practice to look two seconds down the road to what's ahead of you," he continued.

Belzer's case is still under investigation. Ultimately, JSO has to determine who was at fault but the driver of the ambulance could get charged.

"Emergency responders can get in trouble if investigation shows they weren't using due care," Asbury said.

Not yielding to an emergency vehicle is a moving violation, that is punishable by up to a $160 fine, depending on what county you live in.
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The views expressed here do not necessarily represent those of Action News Jacksonville

nativejax - 7/25/2012 12:29 AM
0 Votes
By law, the Ambulance driver was.

tlynn - 7/24/2012 8:43 PM
0 Votes
How can drivers avoid tragedies like this? How about by paying attention!?!?! Hang up and drive! Put away all of your toys….i.e. cell phones, and pay attention to the road! You are putting all of us at risk by your self absorbed mindset! YOU are not the only one on the road! Hang up and drive! If your feet and your hands are engaged, then your mind should be as well!!!!!!
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