Another update: I passed EMT-B and take the NREMT tomorrow afternoon.
I live in Florida so I have 2 major points to respond to what you said
In my area, there are 0 volunteers, all full time career firefighters in the city and county, the city and county fire dept are also dedicated ALS providers (they only staff ALS Engines and Ambulances, no BLS) and can probably get to anything faster than I could.
Florida only has a Duty to Act law if you are employed by a government agnecy (ie fire dept, police, etc.) and Private/Unemployed EMT's do not fall under Duty to Act. (I'm still gonna help if I see something though)