Is it an offence for an emergency ambulance to be driven with faulty tail lights? What legislation and section

Question

I believe that it might be under the Motor Vehicle and Construction and Use Regs, but I'm not sure. Obviously this is a question for Traffic Police type individuals, or maybe a Solicitor. Thanks.

Perhaps, on reflection I should have pointed out that I have been a paramedic with the London Ambulance Service for nearly 20 years. This is to try and clarify the legal position between management and staff. Thanks.

Answer 1

It's an offence to drive any vehicle with statutory mandatory lights. It would fail an Mot which is covered by section 45 of the road traffic act. The police may use the construction and use regulations, but I'm not sure.
It would have to be proved that the driver knew the lights were faulty as they can blow at anytime. I can't see it being a problem as there's enough non-mandatory lamps and a fair bit of reflective bodywork, so it's not likely to contribute towards and accident.

Answer 2

Of course it is an offence to drive with defective lights however bulbs can blow at any time.You may be stopped by the Police and told that you have a light out but unless the lens is broken you rarely get a ticket.
I live near an ambulance station and see them check the lights regularly.
Why should this be an issue for the Police or a Solicitor to answer.
Do you want them pulled over and fined?

Answer 3

What's the problem? did you run into the back of one whilst on your mobile?they come under the same laws as the rest of us, but if a bulb has just blown then they would be stopped if spotted by the police & told to get it fixed ASAP not thrown in prison preferably after being escorted to there emergency destination first.

Answer 4

an emergency ambulance is subject to most of the same equipment laws as a regular car. In the US these are federal laws.

Answer 5

Give it a rest,