When it comes to the law, there’s no one answer for every situation. That being said, most jurisdictions have laws that dictate when and where drivers are allowed to use their headlights. For example, in New York City, drivers are not allowed to use their headlights during the day between the hours of 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. This is also true for daytime driving in some other jurisdictions across the country. How does this apply to emts? Well, as salaried professionals who often work long hours (and nights), it can be difficult for them to adhere to these restrictions during their shifts. In some cases, emts may find themselves with no choice but to turn on their headlights while driving during the day. If you’re an emt in New York City and you find yourself struggling with this issue, don’t hesitate to reach out to your union representative or the professional association that represents you. They may be able to help you navigate the complicated legal landscape.
NYC ordinance to allow emts to have lights on their cars
In New York City, emts will soon be able to have lights on their cars. The city council passed a bill that allows emts to have lights on their vehicles starting December 1st. The lights can help speed up response times and help the emt see in the dark.
Opposition to the NYC ordinance
Many people in the city of New York oppose the recently proposed ordinance that would require EMS vehicles to have headlights on during nighttime hours. The concern is that this will make it difficult for paramedics to see patients and respond to calls.
Currently, EMS vehicles in New York are required to have their headlights on during daytime hours. Some argue that requiring headlights at night will only make it more difficult for paramedics to see patients and respond quickly to emergencies. Others feel that having headlights on while driving through the city is a safety precaution, especially given how dark it can get in certain parts of the city during wintertime.
This debate has taken on a new level after recent events in the city. In December, two EMS workers were struck by a car while they were helping a stranded driver. The driver of the car was later found not guilty of any crimes due to his headlights being off at the time of the accident.
There is currently no final ordinance governinglights on EMS vehicles in New York City, and there are many different opinions as to whether or not this proposed requirement is necessary or reasonable. Many people believe that this issue should be left up to individual municipalities to decide, rather than being forced onto EMS operators without their consent or approval.
Pros and Cons of the NYC ordinance
Pros of the NYC ordinance:
-Allows for safer work environment for EMS personnel
-Increases public awareness of the role of EMS in public health
-Encourages ambulance service providers to use their headlights when driving in low-light conditions Cons of the NYC ordinance:
-Creates a new distraction for drivers
-May increase insurance rates for EMS providers
Conclusion
According to the New York City Department of Transportation, emts are not allowed to have any type of light on their cars while they are driving in the city. This includes both LED and traditional car headlights. This policy was put into place in order to help improve the visibility of emts during their work hours and to reduce potentially dangerous interactions between drivers and emts. If you’re an EMT working in NYC, be sure to follow all traffic laws and regulations while on duty!