Anatomy of an Accident

Anatomy of an Accident

BY WILLIAM C. PETERS

It was a pleasant summer evening, and the members of the ladder company were eagerly awaiting their assignment for the monthly mutual-aid drill. This particular suburban community enjoyed the benefits of belonging to a very strong mutual-aid alliance that could be counted on to supply all needed apparatus, equipment, and personnel in case of a major event. One of the features that made this group so cohesive was a monthly drill. In rain or shine, in hot or cold weather, the drill involving target hazards in each community was carefully planned and executed.

On this particular night, the subject community knew it would be sending its aerial truck to the drill. The members did not know in advance if their assignment would be to respond to the scene and operate or relocate to another town`s empty station. The drill was underway, and one by one, the towns were paged over the radio system and given instructions. When the tone went off for this company, members were slightly disappointed to find that they were assigned to an empty fire station two towns away as a standby company.

The captain had previously made up his mind that if the company was not going to be put to work at the drill, he would let the newest driver get some experience behind the wheel. When he informed the 21-year-old that he would be the chauffeur, the member was surprised and excited. He climbed into the cab of the big, 100-foot midmount aerial and was ready for his first performance. He had slowly and cautiously maneuvered the big machine around town on driver training exercises and had backed it into the station, but he had never driven the unit on a response.

With all the members safely aboard, the apparatus diesel engine came to life. As training dictated, the driver released the air brakes and switched on the warning lights, and they were on their way.

At the same time, a 66-year-old senior citizen had convinced her daughter to accompany her to a nearby shopping mall to pick out curtains for her newly redecorated kitchen. On the way, they played “lite FM” music on the car radio and chatted about color combinations.

In the front seat of the truck, the rookie could not believe his luck. He was proud that the captain had had enough confidence in him to let him drive. With a nervous smile on his face and his eyes fixed on the road, he had an overwhelming feeling of power; he was the pilot of this big “craft.” Each time they approached traffic, the captain would crank up the “Q” siren, and the civilians would obediently move their vehicles to the side of the road. After all, the firefighters were on a mission that was far more important than any routine chores the civilians were doing with their cars!

During the trip, the driver was experiencing a strange sensation. As he became more comfortable driving, the apparatus was moving faster and gliding easier through traffic. And each time the captain cranked up the siren to its highest pitch, the truck picked up speed, as if the siren and truck were linked. The captain was offering driv-ing tips and encouragement and was surprised at how natural the driving duties were coming to the probie.

As the big aerial truck approached a single-lane intersection, the driver observed that five cars were waiting for the red light to turn green. With the truck bearing down on them, siren at full pitch, the cars had no place to go other than to try to get over to the right as far as possible. With the traffic lane blocked, the apparatus driver decided to make a move that he had seen done many times before during fire responses. He rapidly swung the speeding apparatus out into the empty oncoming lane to pass the line of stopped cars.

As they slowly approached the clear intersection, the mother and daughter had just agreed on colors and patterns for the kitchen curtains.

At the very last instant before entering the intersection, the apparatus driver saw the compact car passing from right to left in front of him. The car and the apparatus were on an irreversible collision course! The screech of tires on the pavement was followed by the horrible sound of crushing metal and breaking glass as the apparatus broadsided the car, pushing it more than 50 feet across the intersection and pinning it against a utility pole.

The young driver, feeling helpless, vividly remembered the stunned look of surprise on the older woman`s face as their eyes met a second before impact. She had a look of sheer terror and utter disbelief. “How could this be?” she must have thought. “I have the green light! Where is this big truck coming from? Why isn`t he stopping?” The moment was frozen in the probie`s mind.

When the dust cleared, the captain, who was thrown against the windshield, ignored the blood dripping from the wound on his head and grabbed the radio microphone. He sent an urgent message preceded by the words “This is not a drill!” requesting rescue, EMS, and police personnel to the scene. The company members began first aid and extrication, but it was obvious to them that it was a bad situation. It took nearly 40 minutes to remove the mother`s lifeless body. The daughter, critically injured and pinned on the other side of the vehicle, was crying for help during the entire rescue operation and begging rescuers to help her mother. At that point, nothing could be done for the mother. While moments before the biggest decision in the daughter`s life was the color of kitchen curtains, now her thoughts would have to turn to funeral arrangements.

The outcome of this unfortunate incident was sad for all involved. One family lost a wife, mother, and grandmother; and the daughter spent six months in the hospital and in physical therapy to regain the use of her legs.

The apparatus driver, who was one of the department`s young hopefuls, resigned from the volunteer fire service. His dreams of being a hero and providing a valuable service to his community faded into nightmares, as he cursed the memory of getting behind the wheel that fateful night.

THE INVESTIGATION

In the subsequent investigation, some of the issues that received close scrutiny were the following:

The experience of the apparatus driver to operate a heavy fire apparatus, especially under response conditions.

The appropriateness of responding “Code 3” to a verified nonemergency.

The decision to approach a red light in the oncoming lane without stopping or having the ability to stop.

The apparatus maintenance and upkeep.

Whether the driver, the captain, or the fire chief would be held responsible.

RESULTS

The results of the investigation were as follows:

The firefighter had gotten his driver`s license at age 17 and had fewer than five years of experience behind the wheel. The only formal driver training he had was a high school driver`s education class for one semester at age 16.

Examination of his driving record revealed that he had only one minor violation several years earlier.

The state in which this accident occurred had issued a waiver of the requirements of the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Act of 1986 for firefighters, which required the operators of all other heavy trucks to qualify for a Commercial Driver`s License (CDL). The testing procedure for a CDL involves a classroom written examination, road test, and medical fitness certificate.

The driver had no experience operating an emergency vehicle under response conditions. His only exposure to such a situation in the past was as a passenger on the apparatus. Although he had the necessary skills to drive the truck, an element of immaturity surfaced when the captain was sounding the siren. This phenomenon is not unique to the young driver. Many reasonably mature drivers take on a different personality when they get caught up in the “power” of legally being able to exceed the speed limit, pass through red lights, and have other drivers move out of the way.

Was it appropriate that the apparatus was “responding” even though crew members knew they were merely relocating for a drill? The U.S. Fire Administration Emergency Vehicle Driver Training Manual defines a “true emergency” as: “a situation in which there is a high probability of death or serious injury to an individual, or significant property loss, and action by an emergency vehicle operator may reduce the seriousness of the situation.” Obviously this situation did not meet the above criteria.

Another similar circumstance exists when responding units are informed by radio that the alarm they are responding to is under control, minor in nature, or a false call. Many state motor vehicle laws indicate that any time the apparatus is responding, warning lights and sirens must be used. Most do not cover “responding with caution” (which you should always be doing) without siren sounding or continuing a full response when the situation does not warrant it. This is an area that individual fire departments must examine and decide how to handle.

The decision to approach the red light at a high rate of speed, on the opposite side of the street, was obviously a very poor one. Motor vehicle laws make it very clear that the operator of an emergency vehicle must exercise due regard for the safety of others. If such a maneuver is truly necessary, it must be done slowly and with the apparatus fully under control at all times. A responding unit should never pass a red light or stop sign without stopping or having the ability to stop.

Warning lights and sirens request that the driving public yield the right of way, but there is no guarantee. In defining the term “yield right of way,” evaluate the following. “Yield” means to give, grant, or concede. “Right of way” is the right, established by law, of a vehicle to cross in front of another. Right of way must be given by the driving public and not taken by the apparatus driver. It is true that most motor vehicle laws provide for penalties for drivers who fail to yield right of way to an emergency vehicle; however, this does not relieve the driver of the emergency vehicle of the responsibility of maintaining full control of the apparatus.

Were apparatus maintenance and design factors in the incident? In this case they were not, but in many cases they are. Some design features that could contribute to an accident include poor weight distribution, overloaded suspension, insufficient braking ability, and ineffective warning devices.

In most cases, however, an apparatus-related deficiency that contributes to an accident is more likely caused by poor maintenance and upkeep. Worn tires, poorly adjusted brakes, and loose steering are some defects that could contribute to an accident. The fire department should have and follow a routine apparatus maintenance program. Keep records of these inspections as proof that the department is adhering to the program`s schedule. NFPA 1500, Standard on Fire Department Occupational Safety and Health Program, indicates that the fire department shall establish a list of safety defects to be used to evaluate when a vehicle is to be declared unsafe and placed out of service. Also document the qualifications of the personnel performing the inspections.

Who would share in the responsibility for this incident? First, the driver made the poor decision to pass the stopped cars against a red light and at an excessive rate of speed. This poor decision was obviously due to a lack of experience. Second, the captain put the novice in the driver`s seat and failed to properly supervise the response. He was obviously aware of the driver`s lack of experience and should have closely coached each move. Third, the fire chief must ensure the department has sufficient SOPs to guide the officer in the driver qualification process and to guide the driver as to his responsibilities when responding.

* * *

This story is based on a true incident; it has been altered only to highlight certain points and stimulate thought. You should examine your department`s driving habits and whether your drivers could be held up to the same scrutiny as the driver in the story.

THE DRIVER

The attitude of the driver of an emergency vehicle is probably the most important indicator of the pro-bability of being in-volved in an accident. While physical skill maneuvers the vehicle, the driver`s attitude and mental state dictate the commands. Many skilled drivers have accidents, while those with less skill, ability, and experience avoid them because they have the proper attitude.

Two of the most important traits that contribute to a good attitude are courtesy and patience. Understand that when you are responding with warning lights and sirens, you may encounter up to a hundred civilians on the road. Although you may know where you want them to move, they may rarely encounter an emergency vehicle approaching, and they may panic, freeze, or do something foolish. Try to empathize with civilian drivers–especially elderly or inexperienced ones. Your impatience could lead to an accident. Remember, to be of any use at an emergency scene, first you have to get there!

Overconfidence in your driving skills and in the vehicle`s ability to stop and maneuver, on the other hand, can contribute to a bad attitude. Complacency can also make you forget techniques you learned when you were developing your driving skills.

CITY DRIVING

Even though speeds are usually much lower in city driving situations, there are many more driving tasks to attend to and problems to watch for. You constantly must watch for the movements of others. Pedestrians, motorcycles, and small children are more likely to create problems in the city. When traffic is heavy, you`ll need extra time to react. You can gain this valuable time by keeping your speed down.

Intersections are undoubtedly the most hazardous locations during an emergency response. When approaching an intersection, consider the following:

Is there a traffic light or stop sign that controls the intersection? What is the signal that controls your approach? Uncontrolled intersections–where there are no lights or signs–can be especially dangerous.

Reduce speed as you approach the intersection, even if you have a green light or the right-of-way (at a stop sign). “Cover” the brake pedal–rest your foot on it–to reduce your reaction time in case you have to apply the brakes.

If you have a red light or stop sign, STOP! Do not simply roll through an intersection.

Glance left and right before proceeding. Look for other apparatus that might be approaching. Cross one lane at a time and only after you can identify all lanes of traffic.

Look out for pedestrians in crosswalks and especially for small children, who may be difficult to see if they are playing near parked cars and might not be paying attention.

Avoid total reliance on traffic preemption devices, which change the traffic signals in favor of responding apparatus. A motorist may see the green signal change quickly to red, think the signal is malfunctioning, and proceed anyway.

Change the pitch and tone of your siren before you approach the intersection. Going from wail to yelp and sporadically sounding the air horn might attract the attention of motorists who are in relatively soundproof cars.

When turning at an intersection, make sure you have room to clear parked and oncoming cars. Signal your intentions as you approach. When turning left across traffic, make sure all oncoming traffic comes to a stop. Try to make eye contact with the other drivers. When turning right, stay in your lane so another motorist does not try to pass on your right. As you enter the intersection, make sure you go far enough past the corner to clear other cars when you turn. If this maneuver takes you into the cross street traffic lane, stop and wait for clearance to proceed.

Avoid relying on well-intentioned civilians who direct traffic for you at intersections. Approaching traffic may not obey those commands, which will create a serious hazard if you think the intersection is clear.

Come to a complete stop when you encounter a stopped school bus with flashing warning lights. Also, observe reduced speed zones around schools.

HIGHWAY DRIVING

Like city driving, there is also the potential for many traffic accidents and fatalities on highways–when the weather is good and the roads are dry. In most cases, speed is a major cause of accidents. Since the apparatus is going so fast, apparatus drivers may not allow enough stopping distance. And the high center of gravity of some apparatus or the shifting weight of the tank water could affect handling when you negotiate curves at high speed.

The open expanse of the highway might make you relax your attention. You must stay alert, keep your eyes moving, and be ready to expect the unexpected.

When entering a highway, try to match the speed of the traffic flow and blend in. Avoid slowing down quickly in traffic lanes. Drive in the center lane, and keep both sides clear for any necessary evasive maneuvers.

When driving in traffic, the safest speed is the speed of other vehicles. Vehicles going in the same direction at the same speed are less likely to run into each other. Be sure to maintain a safe following distance.

At highway speeds, it is often impossible for a driver ahead of you to hear apparatus warning signals. Thus you have to rely more on visual warning devices. This might take longer–the driver most likely will not notice the apparatus and will not take action until he has checked his rearview mirror. Keep this in mind, and do not chase the vehicle in front of you. When the driver does notice you, he might panic and hit the brakes. At highway speeds, you could end up rear-ending him. Always leave a cushion of space around your vehicle.

PREVENTING ACCIDENTS

Most accidents are caused by operator error–yours or the other driver`s. By driving defensively, you can reduce the probability of being involved in an accident. Keep in mind the following when you drive:

Be alert. Never think that the other driver will not make a driving error.

Be prepared. Learn what to do when you have to act fast. Anticipate a problem before it happens.

Act quickly. Don`t panic if something happens suddenly.

Obey traffic laws. Operators of emergency vehicles are often exempt from certain traffic regulations while responding, but always have due regard for the safety of the driving public. When you are not in response mode, always obey all traffic laws.

Maintain a good attitude. You must have courtesy and patience when dealing with the general driving public. Drive defensively. Being hostile and aggressive will eventually lead to an accident.

This engine was struck at an intersection by a civilian car and overturned after skidding out of control and striking a road divider. (Photo by Ron Jeffers.)

(Top) The driver of this apparatus was cautiously crossing a four-lane divided highway when the civilian driver suddenly passed the stopped traffic and crossed directly in front of the apparatus. [Photo courtesy of the Jersey City (NJ) Fire Department.] (Bottom) The driver of this car ignored a red traffic signal and struck the side of an aerial truck that was responding to an alarm. This highlights the need to exercise caution at intersections even when you assume that you have the right-of-way. [Photo courtesy of the Jersey City (NJ) Fire Department.]

The rear of this aerial truck was struck by a pumper when they collided at an intersection while responding to a working fire. The intersection had limited visibility, and each operator thought that the civilian traffic was stopped for his approach. (Photo by author.)

Driver training/testing courses such as this one can help apparatus drivers develop the skills they need to safely operate vehicles on the roadway. (Photo by author.)

The apparatus pictured was slowly crossing a major six-lane roadway, one lane at a time, when the driver of the civilian vehicle failed to stop and struck the front of the truck. (Photo by Ron Jeffers.)

WILLIAM C. PETERS is a battalion chief, supervisor of apparatus, and a 23-year veteran of the Jersey City (NJ) Fire Department. He is a member of the NFPA Technical Committee on Fire Apparatus and the Fire Engineering editorial advisory board. Peters is the author of Fire Apparatus Purchasing Handbook (Fire Engineering Books, 1994), two chapters on apparatus in The Fire Chief`s Handbook, Fifth Edition (Fire Engineering Books, 1995), the booklet Final Farewell to a Fallen Firefighter: A Basic Fire Department Funeral Protocol, and the video Factory Inspections of New Fire Apparatus (Fire Engineering, 1998).