In order to ensure that emergency responders are able to render aid to those who need it most, they’re allowed to break certain traffic laws. In the process, however, they’re required to proceed as safely as possible – in an effort to balance the primary concerns of providing emergency aid and avoiding further accidents. Emergency responders do not get a free pass when it comes to the accidents they cause, and if you’ve been so injured, you shouldn’t delay consulting with an experienced Buffalo emergency vehicle accident attorney.
Ordinary Negligence
Ordinary negligence is the standard that applies in typical traffic accidents. This means that if another driver’s negligence – such as distraction, excess speed, impairment, exhaustion, or aggression – causes you to be seriously injured in a car accident, you can seek money damages for your related losses through their insurance provider.
When the Driver Is an Emergency Responder
The law makes exceptions for those who operate emergency vehicles. In response to emergencies, emergency workers are afforded the right to exceed the speed limit, to run red lights and stop signs, and to park where other vehicles can’t – and they aren’t held liable for any injuries sustained in the course of this ordinary negligence.
In order to hold an emergency responder legally responsible, you must be able to prove they showed reckless disregard for the safety of others. Reckless disregard requires a higher standard of proof, which makes working with a capable emergency vehicle accident attorney the best practice.
Requirements to Consider
Those who drive emergency vehicles are required to take all the following precautions:
- To employ their emergency lights and sirens when they are in emergency mode – letting others on the road know to proceed with caution
- To take risks only out of necessity
- To take the safety of others into careful consideration
It’s also important to recognize that emergency service providers generally work for governmental entities, such as a city or municipality, and as a result, there are much shorter time constraints involved.
FAQs
Can emergency responders break the law?
Emergency responders must follow all the rules of the road when they’re not responding to emergencies, but when they are in response mode, they’re afforded more leeway in order to better protect lives.
Can emergency responders ever be held liable?
Yes, when an emergency responder displays reckless disregard for the safety of others, they can be held legally responsible for the damages they cause – through the entity that employs them.
Is an attorney necessary?
Claims involving emergency vehicles are some of the most challenging traffic accident claims, and having a seasoned attorney backing you up is strongly advised.
An Experienced Buffalo Emergency Vehicle Accident Attorney Is on Your Side
The resourceful Buffalo emergency vehicle accident attorneys at Steve Foley Law Firm have reserves of experience protecting the rights of our valued clients – in pursuit of their rightful money damages and fullest recoveries. We’re on your side and here to help, so please don’t put off contacting us online or calling us at 716-249-2222 for more information today.