Yes, there are lots of untrained, undertrained ambulance drivers out there. These are usually the ones that drive those ambulances full of politocos names on the sides. Most big name ambulance companies do not tolerate such driving.

Interestingly, an ambulance in action is more akin to 'controlled chaos'. To the untrained eye some maneuvers can seem like inviting danger or downright dangerous but in reality they are controlled maneuvers to make ambulances safer.

Take for example, slicing across 4 lanes of traffic. An ambulance will do this randomly to shake off tailgaters who are looking for a quick ticket out of traffic. This discourages other drivers from tailgating because they know they cannot outmaneuver a fully outfitted emergency vehicle.

Siren tones also change depending on what the ambulance is doing. High density traffic? Open road? Approaching a 4 way crossing? There are different siren tones for different situations and drivers should be trained regarding this.

Even when going against the flow of traffic or crossing a stoplight, there are still certain safety measures that need to be undertaken.

It's not as simple as hitting the siren and driving as fast as you can.