Health,
Correct me if I am wrong, in NJ EMTs are not allowed to have red lights or pass through red lights, they have to follow the regular traffic rules.
That is why cops would pull over EMTs that respond in their personal cars.
In NY, the law permits EMTs to have lights and sirens and go through red lights.
I did not understand what you wrote regarding two units responding with the ambulance en route, all units respond on a code 1 unless advised otherwise, even if the ambulance is already on the way, the ambulance without EMTs is not worth much.
I will not deny that abuse does not exist, however it is not wide spread, at least not in the area I am. the member runs the risk of being caught either by PD (they can follow you to the scene), or by a coordinator. Most people that call in to complain are referring to a call that has been canceled or downgraded.