NHTSA research into ambulance (and emergency vehicle) driving operations and driver training is long overdue.
Not because vehicle-related incidences account for a significant number of actions against emergency vehicle operators – which they do – but because the lack of consistency in standards and training leaves the vehicle operators vulnerable.
Unfortunately, like much that is “organized” by the federal government, I am not optimistic about the outcome of this NHTSA investigation.
Gathering information is one thing. The breadth and quality of the information is another; as is the usability of the information.
To be useful, the information gathered will need to identify the specific causes of “negative incidents” involving emergency vehicles and, more importantly, it will need to show a causal link between the incident, the outcome, and the impact of training – or the lack thereof on both.
To be valuable, the aforementioned data will need to be translated into a training curriculum that addresses and prevents (or at least reduces the number of) negative incidents involving emergency vehicles.
To be meaningful, the curriculum will need to be supported by enforceable standards for compliance.
To be impactful, emergency vehicle operations from coast to coast will need to accept, implement, and follow-through.
As you can see, this will be a monumental task. Without the proper support and follow up, simply gathering the information will be nothing short of a waste of time and energy.
On the other hand, if the project is completed such that the information is useful, valuable, meaningful, and impactful, then emergency vehicle operators will enjoy a level of protection never before seen in EMS. More importantly, the public will benefit from the ever-improving delivery of EMS.
