KUCHING: Accidents between emergency services and civilian vehicles could easily be prevented had only road users practised common courtesy.
State Traffic Investigation and Enforcement Department chief Supt Alexson Naga Chabu told New Sarawak Tribune that the accident yesterday morning involving an ambulance and a SUV at the Jalan Tun Ahmad Zaidi Adruce traffic light junction was totally unnecessary.
A pregnant woman on her way to the hospital with high blood pressure and stomach pain suffered injuries when the ambulance she was in was involved in a collision at about 9.30am.
Two nurses and the ambulance driver were also injured. The 74-year-old driver of the car suffered minor injuries.
The impact caused the ambulance to land on its side.
Supt Alexson said the case was being investigated under Section 43(1) of the Road Transport Act 1987 for reckless driving.
The offender would be fined RM10,000 or a year in jail if convicted.
Road users who refused to give way to emergency vehicles or official vehicles can be charged under Section 186 or 187 of the Penal Code, for preventing a uniformed body from carrying out duties.
Emergency or law enforcement vehicle drivers would also be hauled up in the court of law if they were at fault, and Supt Alexson appealed to all to exercise caution and common courtesy on the road.
“Don’t forget that the fire engine driver is rushing to someone’s house to save lives and property in a fire.
“Police are rushing to catch criminals or to prevent fights, and an ambulance driver is rushing a patient to the nearest hospital to save life. It may be your family or a relative or a friend inside,” stressed Supt Alexson.
“Emergency vehicles are allowed to drive on even when the traffic light is red but due to some inconsiderate road users who refused to give way, an accident would happen. Then, everyone pays a heavy price.”
In yesterday’s case, Supt Alexson said, it was fortunate that no life was lost.
He hoped that this would be a lesson for everyone. “If you are not in any emergency, do not speed. Take your time, five minutes or 10 minutes late, as long as you reach your destination safely means a lot to your family.”
