Car accidents involving ambulances can be especially traumatic, as these vehicles typically respond to emergencies and often drive at high speeds; the drivers might disregard standard traffic rules to reach those in need. While ambulance drivers are trained to maneuver safely in urgent situations, the nature of their work can lead to accidents, especially if other drivers are unaware of their approach.
Collisions with ambulances can cause major injuries and confusion about liability, as emergency vehicles have certain legal protections. The intensity of these incidents, combined with the uncertainty around fault, call for trusted legal guidance to help you pursue potential compensation.
Who Is Liable When an Ambulance Hits a Vehicle?
Determining liability in a collision with an ambulance can be challenging due to the unique circumstances surrounding emergency vehicles. For instance, ambulances frequently go through red lights or exceed speed limits. However, these privileges come with the responsibility of driving safely and avoiding accidents whenever possible. Ambulance drivers must exercise caution and follow regulations for emergency vehicle operations. If they fail to do so, their agency may be liable for any resulting damages.
Liability in these situations depends on whether the ambulance was operating under emergency conditions, using lights and sirens. If it was not, the ambulance driver is expected to follow regular traffic laws and may be held liable like any other driver. If it was an emergency situation, the case may be more complicated. Legal standards vary by jurisdiction, but liability may still be assigned if the driver acted recklessly or negligently, despite responding to an emergency.
Can I File a Claim Against an Ambulance Driver or the Agency?
In most cases, claims can be filed against the ambulance agency rather than the driver individually, as ambulance drivers generally operate within the scope of their employment. Filing a claim against a government or municipal agency can introduce additional challenges, as certain legal protections may limit liability or require specific procedures for claims. When injured parties file claims against government entities there may be shorter filing deadlines or advance notice required. These additional steps must be followed carefully to preserve the right to pursue compensation.
When filing a claim, gather all relevant evidence, including medical records, photographs, witness statements, and police reports. This documentation will be necessary to support your claim and demonstrate the impact of the accident on your health, property, and financial situation.
Do Ambulance Drivers Have Special Legal Protections?
Ambulance drivers often have certain legal protections when performing emergency duties, but these protections do not shield them from liability if they act with negligence or recklessness. Laws generally allow emergency vehicle drivers some discretion to bypass standard traffic regulations when responding to urgent situations, but this does not absolve them of the responsibility to prioritize public safety. If an ambulance driver fails to take reasonable precautions while operating an emergency vehicle, they could be held liable for your damages.
Legal protections for ambulance drivers differ across jurisdictions, so it is essential to understand local laws and how they affect liability. Our Chester County car accident lawyers can provide more specific guidance on how these protections may apply to your case.
Contact the Delaware County Car Accident Lawyers at Eckell Sparks After a Crash Involving an Ambulance
The Delaware County car accident lawyers at Eckell, Sparks, Levy, Auerbach, Monte, Sloane, Matthews & Auslander, P.C. understand the unique challenges of cases involving emergency vehicles and can provide valuable guidance during your claims process. To learn more and to speak with one of our lawyers, call our Media and West Chester, Pennsylvania, offices at 610-565-3701 or submit our online form. We serve clients in Delaware County, Chester County, and Montgomery County.