Getting hit by an ambulance, fire truck, or police car can be a devastating situation. These vehicles are often speeding down the road, rushing to an emergency situation when they hit other cars. This can often intensify the damage and injuries of a collision. Further, the legal claims resulting from these accidents can be complicated.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a Rochester emergency services vehicle accident, immediately seek the assistance of experienced attorneys who have handled these types of cases. Contact the Steve Foley Law Firm today for assistance with your accident claim.
Emergency Drivers Have a Duty to Keep Others Safe
Emergency vehicle drivers, including police cars, ambulances, and fire trucks, are authorized to bypass traffic laws in certain situations to provide emergency services. However, this does not give them a license to drive recklessly or without regard for public safety. Despite their exemption from certain traffic regulations, emergency drivers still have a duty to exercise caution and avoid causing harm to others.
When an accident occurs involving an emergency vehicle, you must determine whether the driver was acting within the scope of their duties and if they took reasonable measures to prevent the collision. This can only be done through a comprehensive investigation by experienced attorneys who understand the challenges of these cases.
Causes of Collisions with Emergency Vehicles
Collisions involving emergency vehicles can happen for various reasons. Some common causes include:
- Failure to yield: Other drivers may fail to yield the right of way to emergency vehicles, leading to accidents. In these cases, it is crucial to determine if the emergency vehicle’s signal lights and sirens were activated, and if the other driver had a clear opportunity to move out of the way.
- Distracted driving: Both emergency vehicle drivers and other motorists can be guilty of distracted driving, which can increase the risk of accidents. Texting, talking on the phone, or any other activity that diverts attention from the road can lead to severe consequences.
- Poor visibility: Emergency vehicles often travel at high speeds, making it essential for them to be highly visible to other motorists. Improperly maintained or malfunctioning lights and sirens can contribute to accidents.
- Lack of training: Emergency vehicle drivers must undergo specialized training to handle their vehicles safely and efficiently. However, inadequate training can lead to errors that result in accidents.
Seeking Compensation Can be Complicated
When you are injured in an accident involving an emergency vehicle, seeking compensation can be a complicated process. There may be multiple parties involved, including the driver of the emergency vehicle, their employer, and potentially other motorists. Determining liability and assessing the full extent of damages is difficult, and you should have the help of a trusted car accident attorney.
Our Rochester emergency vehicle accident attorneys at the Steve Foley Law Firm have the knowledge and experience necessary to handle the legal process on your behalf. We will vigorously pursue your rights to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Any other losses
Consult Our Rochester Emergency Vehicle Accident Attorneys
If you or a loved one has been involved in a Rochester Emergency Vehicle Services accident, do not hesitate to contact the Steve Foley Law Firm. Our experienced team of attorneys is ready to represent you throughout the legal process. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation.