Are Ambulance Drivers in India Specially Trained for Driving at Such High Speeds? Are These Ambulances Safe for Other Healthy People Commuting on the Road?

India's emergency transportation system faces a unique set of challenges, particularly when it comes to the safety and training of ambulance drivers and the vehicles themselves. While many ambulance drivers undergo specialized training to handle critical situations, the effectiveness of this training can vary significantly based on the service provider, region, and available resources.

Training and Standards

Emergency Driving Training: Many ambulance services do provide specialized training for drivers that includes advanced emergency driving techniques, navigating through traffic, and the appropriate use of sirens and emergency lights. This training aims to equip drivers with the skills necessary to handle high-pressure situations effectively.

Basic Medical Knowledge: Drivers are also trained to understand and respond to basic medical emergencies, which can help them provide initial care until more advanced medical assistance arrives.

Training Experiences and Implementation

However, the level and quality of training can vary significantly depending on multiple factors. In India, the actual experience and adherence to these training programs can differ widely, as highlighted by the varying responses to similar situations. For instance, while some ambulance drivers might have received comprehensive training, others may not have had the same opportunities.

Experiences from actual training sessions and on-road performance underscore the need for consistent, high-standard training. In the best-case scenario, drivers are well-prepared, but on-road conditions can still pose significant challenges. The variability of training and its implementation can affect the safety not only of the ambulance staff but also of other road users.

High-Speed Driving and Road Safety

Speed and Aggression: While ambulances are designed to navigate through traffic quickly, this can pose risks to other road users. High-speed driving can lead to accidents, especially if other drivers are not aware of the ambulances approach. The use of sirens and flashing lights is intended to alert other drivers to yield, but this is not always effective.

Awareness and Protocols: Effective coordination between ambulance drivers and other road users is crucial. Not all road users comply with the alerts from ambulances, which can create dangerous situations. Ensuring that all drivers are well-informed about emergency vehicle protocols is essential.

Vehicle Design and Safety Features

Vehicular Safety: Ambulances are equipped with safety features and medical equipment, but their design for speed can sometimes compromise stability if not driven carefully. The safety of both ambulance crew and other road users is a shared responsibility.

Infrastructure and Compliance: Issues with road display and traffic rules adherence further contribute to the risks. In many regions, speed limit boards are not properly displayed, and most drivers do not pay attention to them. This non-compliance further exacerbates the challenges.

Case Studies and Examples

Similar to the situation in New Zealand, where the speed limits in residential areas are set at 50 km/h (31 mph) for normal weather conditions, a driver has some time to react in case of an unexpected event. However, in the case of India, where roads are often not well-displayed for speed limits and traffic rules are not strictly followed, the safety margin for everyone is significantly reduced.

For instance, in Kerala, it is not uncommon to see bikers speeding through busy roads, which are designed for a much lower speed limit. Such behavior can lead to accidents and fatalities, as biker response times to unexpected events are out of human response range at these speeds.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

A recent news article mentioned a critical incident where a well-known figure exceeded speed limits to catch a flight, and faced legal repercussions. Similarly, the use of high speeds by ambulances, despite the intent to save lives, can pose threats to other road users. These cases highlight the need for balanced approaches to emergency vehicle usage and road safety.

Conclusion

The training and response of ambulance drivers in India can vary significantly, which can impact the overall safety of the transportation system. It is crucial for all drivers to remain vigilant and follow traffic rules to ensure safety on Indian roads. As the next generation emerges, it is imperative to set a better example by adhering to traffic regulations and prioritizing public safety.

Amid these challenges, ongoing improvements in training, infrastructure, and adherence to traffic rules can lead to a safer environment for all road users. Collaborative efforts by government agencies, emergency service providers, and the public can play a vital role in enhancing road safety.