A police or fire vehicle in operation is always considered to be an "authorized emergency vehicle". True or False?

The statement is true because police and fire vehicles, when they are in operation, are designated as "authorized emergency vehicles." This classification grants them certain rights and privileges under traffic laws, allowing them to bypass standard traffic regulations in order to respond to emergencies quickly and effectively. This includes being able to travel faster than the posted speed limits, maneuver through traffic, and disregard some traffic signals when necessary, provided that they use audible and visual signals.

In most jurisdictions, any police or fire vehicle operating in the course of its duties is recognized as an emergency vehicle, irrespective of whether it is responding to an emergency situation at that moment or not. This designation is essential for ensuring that emergency responders can perform their duties without unnecessary delays. Other options such as only during emergencies or only if marked accordingly would not align with the broader definitions established in traffic codes that encompass the operational status of these vehicles regardless of specific circumstances.