New York State law offers vehicle operating privileges to first responders

Police officers, firefighters, and EMTs responding to emergencies often operate their vehicles under circumstances far different from everyday motorists.

While New York law recognizes this reality by affording emergency vehicles certain privileges, questions often arise about when those privileges apply and what standard of care governs if an accident occurs. A recent decision from the Appellate Division, Second Department — Begum v. Marzullo (2025 NY Slip Op 04621) — highlights the importance of properly identifying the governing standard when litigating collisions involving emergency vehicles.

In Begum, the plaintiff sought summary judgment after her vehicle collided with a marked Suffolk County police car. The accident occurred in an intersection while the officer was engaged in offic