PRIVATE ambulance drivers are being warned they will be prosecuted if they use sirens and flashing blue lights illegally.

Only companies authorised by an NHS Trust are allowed to use sirens and blue flashing lights in an emergency.

Drivers of private ambulances from other firms are being warned they could be fined and get points on their driving licence if they are found to be using emergency lights and sirens on the public highway illegally.

It comes as the owner of a privately owned medical event company was fined £300 with additional costs of £115 and given 7 points on their driving licence last week.

He had been found guilty of driving without due care and attention, use of a vehicle fitted with a blue light, and using a vehicle fitted with a two tone horn/siren.

The charges related to an incident where a private rapid response vehicle was spotted driving through Minehead on 22nd July last year while using its emergency lights and sirens despite not being authorised to do so and whilst not involved in a medical emergency.

It follows another case where a private ambulance provider was also prosecuted for road traffic offences by using a car marked up as an ambulance with emergency lighting fitted, allowing him to avoid paying tolls on the second Severn Bridge.

There are clear guidelines and rules relating to the equipping of an ambulance on the road which includes the Ambulance Deregulation Act 2015.

Superintendent Andy Williams, head of road safety at Avon and Somerset Constabulary, said: “Unauthorised drivers using sirens and blue lights on public roads can pose a danger to the public.

“Not only that but others have been known to use them for financial gain.

“We’re working with South Western Ambulance Service NHS Trust to ensure those Private Ambulance Service and Event Medical providers operating within the force area comply with the legislation.

“This includes the correct marking up of their vehicles, the incorrect fitting and use of emergency equipment and the driving within the highway code and not in an emergency response mode.

“Those who flout these laws will be reported and dealt with robustly as shown recently.”