What can be a consequence of not maintaining "due regard" while driving?

Not maintaining "due regard" while driving can lead to accidents and liability. In emergency response situations, operators of emergency vehicles have a legal and ethical responsibility to operate their vehicles safely, considering the safety of other road users. Due regard means understanding and mitigating the potential risks involved while responding to emergencies, such as disregarding traffic signals or speeding.

When operators fail to maintain this standard, they increase the likelihood of collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians, thereby causing accidents. Such incidents may result in injuries or fatalities, leading to potential civil liability for the operator and their agency. Moreover, not exercising due regard can have legal repercussions, including the operator being held responsible for damages and the agency facing lawsuits or public scrutiny. Thus, prioritizing due regard is critical not only for personal and public safety but also for upholding the legal responsibilities of emergency vehicle operations.