A. Except as provided in this section and subject to specific exceptions prescribed in this chapter and chapters 4 and 5 of this title with reference to authorized emergency vehicles, the provisions of this chapter and chapters 4 and 5 of this title applicable to the drivers of vehicles on the highways apply to the drivers of all vehicles owned or operated by the United States, this state or any county, city, town, district or other political subdivision of this state.
B. Unless specifically made applicable by law, this chapter and chapters 4 and 5 of this title:
1. Do not apply to persons, teams, motor vehicles and other equipment while actually engaged in work on the surface of a highway.
2. Do not apply to railroad employees working on a railroad track or tracks crossing the highway.
3. Apply to persons and vehicles described in this section if they are traveling to or from work on the surface of a highway or on a railroad track or tracks crossing the highway.