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Defensive Driving Course Computer Based Self Study

Before you begin:

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This class takes place of the 3 hour classroom portion of the driver training program that is required by our insurance carrier.  Please read each page thoroughly, answer the questions at the bottom of each page then submit your answers to EMS Training or place in one of the forms drop boxes at the hospitals. 

We hope you enjoy this educational experience. 

Motor vehicle accidents are the single largest source of lawsuits against EMS personnel and services.

What is Defensive Driving?

In simple terms it means keeping your eye on the other drivers and expect them to make mistakes that you must take action to.

Officially here is what the law says about emergency vehicles:

EVs (emergency vehicles) are allowed to exceed the speed limit as long as the driver exercises due regard for others

EVs may proceed through an intersection against the red light slowly if the way is clear.

Buncombe County EMS Policy agrees with the above!

Here are a few more BC Policy tips you need to remember:

When passing through stop lights against red, slow to less than 2 miles per hour, this will allow you to stop in time if someone does not yield. Also establish eye contact drivers to insure they see you.

When passing through on green: slow down, take foot of accelerator and be ready to brake, looking in all directions.

When making right or left hand turns in front of stopped vehicles, come to a complete stop,  making eye contact with each driver to insure they are aware of your intentions.

Seat belts:

It is North Carolina law that you wear a seat belt when in the front seat. It has also been determined that there is an advantage to being belted in in the back!

Exam Time

Answer the following questions before continuing to the next page

  1. True or False: As drivers of emergency vehicles we must be alert to the reaction of others and driving in a defensive manner.

  2. According to the law, emergency vehicles may: (List all that apply)
    1. exceed the speed limit if careful
    2. require vehicles to yield right of way
    3. pass through red stop lights slowly and if clear

  3. What does BCEMS policy say about crossing an intersection against a stop light?

  4. What does BCEMS policy say about crossing an intersection against a stop light?

  5. True or False: Without exception seatbelts must be worn by BCEMS personnel and passengers.

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