Ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars play vital roles in public safety, but car accidents involving them can raise difficult legal questions. These collisions often occur when emergency vehicles are responding to urgent calls and driving at high speeds or through intersections. Determining fault and responsibility in such cases can be challenging, as traffic laws give emergency responders certain privileges while still requiring them to drive with care.
Are Emergency Vehicles Allowed to Break Traffic Laws?
In many states, emergency vehicles are permitted to drive above the speed limit, run red lights, or go through stop signs while using their sirens and lights. However, these privileges come with a duty to operate safely. Those drivers must still exercise caution and avoid endangering their passengers and others on the road. If they act recklessly or fail to use proper warning signals, they may be held liable for resulting damages.
What Are the Rules for Drivers When an Emergency Vehicle Approaches?
When drivers see or hear an emergency vehicle approaching, they are legally required to yield the right of way. This typically means pulling over to the right side of the road and stopping until the vehicle has passed. Drivers should also avoid stopping in intersections or blocking the path of the emergency vehicle. Failing to move over can lead to traffic citations and potential liability if a collision occurs.
Who Is at Fault in an Accident With an Emergency Vehicle?
That depends on the circumstances of the crash. If a civilian driver failed to yield properly or interfered with the emergency response, they may bear responsibility. However, if the emergency vehicle’s driver operated recklessly, drove without using sirens or lights, or ignored basic safety rules, the agency employing that driver could be held accountable.
Can I File a Claim Against a Government Entity?
Many emergency vehicles are owned by government agencies, which means that filing a claim involves additional procedures. States and municipalities are often protected by governmental immunity, but exceptions exist for negligence. Claims must typically be filed within specific time limits, which are shorter than those for regular personal injury lawsuits. Missing these deadlines can prevent a person from recovering damages.
What Types of Damages Can Be Recovered?
Depending on the case, an injured person may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. However, if the injured driver contributed to the crash, their recovery may be reduced based on “comparative negligence” laws.
What if I Was Injured While Riding in an Emergency Vehicle?
Passengers in emergency vehicles, such as patients being transported by ambulance, may also suffer injuries in collisions. These individuals can sometimes pursue claims against other drivers or the agency operating the emergency vehicle. The process can be more complicated due to government involvement and insurance coverage limits, but legal remedies are available to address injuries and losses.
Do Insurance Companies Cover Accidents Involving Emergency Vehicles?
That depends on the policies held by the civilian driver and the government agency. In many cases, government entities carry liability insurance that covers damages caused by their employees. Private drivers involved in these accidents may need to file claims through their own insurers while waiting for fault determinations. Insurance adjusters will review evidence and may negotiate settlements based on liability findings.
Our Edison Car Accident Lawyers at Lombardi & Lombardi, P.A. Skillfully Represent Clients Injured in Emergency Vehicle Crashes
Accidents involving emergency vehicles can lead to complicated financial and legal issues. To explore your compensation options, contact our Edison car accident lawyers at Lombardi & Lombardi, P.A. For a free consultation, call us today at 732-906-1500 or complete our online form. With office locations in Brick, Freehold, Edison, and Toms River, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout the state.
