Authorities refuse to recognize his vehicle as an emergency vehicle.
It is obvious that time is crucial in saving lives. Dr. Micheal livingston oversees two clinics in Australia and uses his Nissan GT-R for quick movement from one place to the next. He must travel fast to reach his patients in emergency situations.
One-year-old baby with bronchitis was in urgent need of treatment. Dr. Livingston was only 30 minutes away and had to drive at maximum speed in his sports coupe in order to save the baby. He arrived safely and the baby is now okay.
Dr. Livingston is at risk in cases like the one above. He could also be charged with speeding because he was trying to get to an emergency, but accidents are possible if his vehicle is designated as an emergency vehicle.
Dr. Livingston applied to his GT-R for Emergency Vehicle Status (EVS). This license allows vehicles to be fitted with sirens and lights that can be used in emergency situations. It is also available in Australia. Approved drivers receive training in operating in emergency situations and are exempt from having to comply with road rules.
According to an ABC News report, Dr. Livingston was denied by Australia’s Department of Transport. They cited that male drivers are more likely “to drive at high speeds and engage high-risk behavior,” according to a ABC News report.
“Why can’t I get the same protection as other emergency services?” Dr. Livingston said.
ABS News reported that a spokesperson for the Department of Transport stated that applications are generally approved only if vehicles are part of the state’s emergency service network.