Ambulance accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, including driver negligence, equipment malfunctions, and other factors. These devastating accidents not only have physical and emotional consequences but can also cause significant financial burdens.
Occasionally, an EMT or paramedic fails to secure their passenger properly for transport. As a result, the patient falls out of the back of the vehicle, leading to injury or death. However, most of the cases our Atlanta ambulance accident lawyers handle involve collisions with other vehicles.
Whether you were injured while riding in an ambulance or were driving another vehicle, an Atlanta truck accident lawyer who handles ambulance cases can help you hold the negligent parties responsible for your injuries. Contact John Foy & Associates for a free consultation.
Liability for Collisions Involving Ambulances in Georgia
Ambulance drivers play a critical role in transporting people to the hospital in emergencies, but with this responsibility comes the need for extreme caution and adherence to protocols. Getting patients the medical care they need should not come at the cost of endangering other people.
That said, when ambulances are en route to an emergency, the situation often necessitates actions such as speeding, passing through red lights, or executing other extreme maneuvers. Ambulances are permitted to engage in such practices when their lights and sirens are activated.
If you were involved in a collision with an ambulance with its lights and sirens on, you may bear responsibility for the accident. However, should the ambulance operator fail to look before executing a dangerous maneuver, they could be held responsible for the crash. One of our Atlanta personal injury lawyers can let you know whether you have a case.
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Liability When Injured in an Ambulance
EMTs and paramedics can also be held liable for negligence if their actions lead to medical harm. In the state of Georgia, filing a claim for medical malpractice is possible if injury or death results from medical care received, either from a qualified medical professional or an employee of a medical facility.
Here are some key factors to consider:
- Proving negligence: To pursue a case as an ambulance passenger, you or your lawyer must establish a direct link between the EMT or paramedic’s negligence and your injury.
- Understanding the standard of care: The basis for your case revolves around whether the EMT or paramedic breached the standard of care. While paramedics are human and prone to mistakes, a deviation from the standard of care could make them liable for injuries.
- Determining employer liability: Beyond the individual EMT or paramedic, the ambulance company can also be held liable under vicarious liability laws. Employers are responsible for their employees’ actions within the scope of employment, regardless of whether the entity is public or private.
If you’ve suffered harm while riding in an ambulance, an ambulance accident attorney in Atlanta, GA, will know how to navigate the complexities of your case.
Potential Compensation After an Atlanta Ambulance Accident
After being injured in an ambulance accident in Atlanta, securing fair compensation is crucial. Having a dedicated legal team is essential for maximizing your recovery.
While every case is unique, our Atlanta ambulance accident lawyers typically pursue the following damages for our clients:
- Medical expenses
- Prescription drugs
- Physical therapy
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Lost wages
At John Foy & Associates, our goal is to secure enough compensation to support your full recovery. Given the prolonged recovery process for many ambulance accident victims, we advise against accepting a fast settlement from an insurance company.
These initial offers typically fall short of covering your expenses, so our approach involves a thorough evaluation by experienced doctors familiar with your condition. We then negotiate with the insurance company to ensure you receive enough money to cover all your damages.
Time Limit to Initiate an Accident Claim
The statute of limitations sets the time you have to file a personal injury lawsuit. In Georgia, this limit is set at two years per Georgia Code § 9-3-33. Barring unique circumstances, you must start your claim within two years of the accident date. If you are suing a public entity like the city, the deadline is much shorter.
Even if you have plenty of time before the legal deadline, getting started right away is crucial. Reaching out to a lawyer soon after the incident gives their team more time to gather key evidence in your case. Insurance negotiations also take time.
Talk to an Ambulance Accident Lawyer in Atlanta, GA
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident involving an ambulance, you need strong legal representation to ensure you get the settlement or court award you deserve. At John Foy & Associates, we’ve been representing Atlanta accident victims for over 20 years.
When you reach out to us for a free consultation, one of our ambulance accident lawyers in Atlanta will evaluate your case and explain your legal options. Since we handle cases on contingency, you’ll pay nothing upfront or out of pocket. Your attorney only gets paid when you do.
Contact us today by calling our law offices or filling out the online form.
404-400-4000 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
