Vehicle Rollover Prevention

Emergency vehicle rollovers are costly. There is a human cost (fatalities and serious injuries to occupants), and there is a financial cost (vehicle damage, loss of use of the vehicle, and the public perception of your organization). They are also largely preventable. All emergency vehicles are susceptible to rollovers, but tankers (tenders), pumper tankers, aerials, and ambulances are particularly vulnerable because of their high center of gravity.

Another concern for emergency vehicle drivers is to be aware that civilian vehicle operators may not react in the manner in which you expect or feel to be appropriate. In light of this, you should attempt to leave yourself alternative options when passing or overtaking civilian vehicles. Keep in mind that, when you’re driving an emergency vehicle to an emergency, if another driver fails to yield the right of way, as an emergency vehicle driver you should not:

1. assume the right of way
2. force the right of way
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For optimum safety, the officer or person riding in the front seat officer’s location should be in a position to assist the driver with certain functions that can improve his or her ability to concentrate on driving and traffic awareness.

Vehicle Rollover Prevention

Driver and Officer in Charge Responsibilities