What is considered the next most dangerous place to drive an emergency vehicle after intersections?

Driving on curves is considered the next most dangerous place for emergency vehicles after intersections due to several factors. Curves can significantly restrict visibility, making it difficult for drivers to see potential hazards, pedestrians, or other vehicles. The dynamics of maneuvering through a curve also require more careful handling, especially for larger emergency vehicles which may have less agility than smaller vehicles. In addition, the road's lateral forces can affect the stability of the vehicle, increasing the risk of accidents.

Furthermore, emergency vehicles often respond at high speeds, and sharp curves can challenge both acceleration and deceleration. If a driver is not fully aware of the curve's sharpness or the surface conditions, the vehicle may skid or roll over, posing a greater risk to both the occupants and other road users.

In contrast, driving on straights generally allows for better visibility and control, while hills may present challenges related to acceleration or deceleration but do not inherently restrict visibility as curves do. Interchanges can also be complex but are usually designed with more predictable traffic flow and signage, which may mitigate some risk factors. Thus, the heightened risk associated with curves makes them a critical point of focus for emergency vehicle operations.