In terms of safe driving practices, which of the following should be avoided?

Driving at excessive speeds should be avoided as it significantly increases the risk of accidents, compromises the safety of the EMT, patients, and others on the road, and can lead to severe consequences. Emergency vehicles, including ambulances, have the ability to operate under certain exemptions to traffic laws when responding to emergencies. However, this does not imply that driving at any speed is acceptable; rather, it mandates that EMTs drive with due regard for the safety of all road users.

Maintaining safe speeds allows EMTs to react adequately to unpredictable events, such as pedestrians stepping into the roadway or other vehicles making sudden maneuvers. It also provides the necessary time to assess situations as they arise. High speeds can impair the driver’s ability to navigate safely through intersections, manage turns, and avoid potential hazards. Therefore, while urgency is essential in emergency medical response, it must never come at the expense of safety.