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What Should I Know About Car Accidents with Emergency Vehicles?

December 1, 2020

In busy cities, it is not uncommon to see or hear emergency vehicles. Operating an emergency vehicle requires special training and skills. Other drivers must know how to react when they see these vehicles in the area; however, some accidents are unavoidable. In some cases, an emergency vehicle can be involved in a car accident. In fact, statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reveal that over 100 people are killed each year in accidents with emergency vehicles.

When an emergency vehicle is responding to a situation, all drivers, including the emergency personnel, must abide by the rules of the road. If a collision occurs, the victim should speak to a lawyer.

Car Drivers

Car drivers should always be aware of their surroundings; they need to be able to see and hear if there are emergency vehicles approaching. If there is an emergency vehicle in the vicinity, a car driver must immediately slow down or pull over and allow the emergency vehicle to pass safely. They cannot do so by endangering others, such as jumping a curb or pulling onto a sidewalk, they must perform every action safely and in accordance with traffic laws.

Emergency Vehicle Drivers

Emergency vehicle drivers must follow traffic laws as well, though they have permission to go above the speed limit or go onto the shoulder, but they must not endanger others. Emergency drivers have several distractions in their vehicles, as well as the stress of having to respond safely and quickly. However, emergency vehicle drivers have received specialized training to handle all types of situations.

Emergency personnel must be able to do what is necessary when responding to an emergency. For example, a police officer can cross an intersection only if it is done safely.

What Should I Do After an Accident with an Emergency Vehicle?

Getting into an accident with an emergency vehicle is handled similarly to any other car accident. Medical assistance should be contacted immediately if it is needed, and information must be shared between the two parties, such as contact information, insurance information, and photographs or videos of the scene. Witnesses should also be consulted if they are available as well.

There is the strong possibility of an accident happening, but the emergency vehicle must leave to attend to the emergency. Emergency vehicles are controlled by government agencies, so contacting the specific agency can help identify the driver. These vehicles are most likely equipped with navigational devices or other tracking devices.

These government agencies have plans in place in case accidents occur. As with any other accident, it is important to maintain all details of the accident. It should also be strongly considered to contact a knowledgeable lawyer as well. It may seem confusing at first, but a lawyer can help sort through the details and assist the injured party.

Philadelphia Car Accident Lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. Protect the Rights of Victims Injured by Negligent Emergency Drivers

Even though they are trained, emergency drivers must keep the safety of others in mind and can also be found liable for accidents. If you were involved in an accident with an emergency vehicle, then it is best to contact one of our Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Nerenberg Law Associates, P.C. right away.  Our legal team will help you get the compensation you deserve. Call us today at 215-569-9100 or contact us online for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.