Accidents involving emergency vehicles can be stressful and confusing. When sharing the road with ambulances, fire trucks, or police cars, you might wonder what your rights and responsibilities are in the event of an accident. At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we can help you understand the legal implications and necessary steps to take after an emergency vehicle accident to help ensure your safety and protect your rights.
Understanding Emergency Vehicle Accidents
Emergency vehicle accidents occur when vehicles such as ambulances, fire trucks, or police cars collide with other vehicles or pedestrians. These accidents can happen during high-speed responses, when emergency vehicles run red lights, or when other drivers fail to yield. Understanding the dynamics of these incidents is essential because emergency vehicles operate under different rules, often prioritizing speed and access over typical traffic laws. As a driver, knowing how to react when you encounter an emergency vehicle can help prevent accidents and ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
Legal Responsibilities and Rights
Civilian drivers and emergency vehicle operators in Mississippi have specific legal responsibilities and rights. Civilian drivers are required to yield the right of way to emergency vehicles displaying flashing lights and sounding sirens, pulling over safely to allow them to pass. Emergency vehicle operators must exercise due care and operate their vehicles responsibly, even when responding to emergencies. They are not exempt from liability if they act negligently, such as by speeding excessively or ignoring traffic signals without ensuring it’s safe to do so. If you’re involved in an accident with an emergency vehicle, it’s essential to recognize that while emergency responders have certain privileges, they must still adhere to a standard of reasonable care to avoid causing harm.
Common Causes of Emergency Vehicle Accidents
Emergency vehicle accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to the unique demands placed on these vehicles. Common causes include:
- Speeding: Emergency vehicles frequently exceed speed limits to respond quickly to incidents, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Running Red Lights: Emergency vehicles may run red lights to expedite their response, potentially causing accidents with unsuspecting drivers.
- Inadequate Driver Training: Emergency vehicle operators require specialized training, and insufficient training can lead to poor decision-making and accidents.
- Lack of Proper Vehicle Maintenance: Emergency vehicles must be in top condition to perform safely, and any neglect in maintenance can result in mechanical failures and accidents.
- Driver Distraction: Both emergency vehicle operators and civilian drivers can become distracted, leading to accidents during high-stress situations.
Determining Liability
Determining liability in emergency vehicle accidents involves assessing various factors to establish fault. In Mississippi, the concept of comparative negligence applies, meaning fault can be shared between parties. Key factors influencing liability include whether the emergency vehicle was using lights and sirens appropriately, if the driver adhered to safety protocols, and if civilian drivers followed the law by yielding the right of way. Investigating the scene thoroughly and collecting evidence, such as traffic camera footage, witness statements, and accident reports, is essential. Liability is not automatically assigned to one party; both the actions of the emergency vehicle operator and the civilian driver are scrutinized to determine the extent of each party’s responsibility in the accident.
Steps to Take After an Accident
After an accident with an emergency vehicle, your safety and legal compliance are paramount. First, ensure everyone’s safety by moving to a safe location and calling 911 to report the accident. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering witness statements. Exchange information with the emergency vehicle operator, but avoid discussing fault. Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine, as some injuries might not be immediately apparent. Lastly, contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your case and understand your rights and responsibilities following the accident.
Contact Our Experienced Mississippi Emergency Vehicle Accident Attorneys
At Chatham Gilder Howell Pittman, we have the experience and dedication to help you navigate the complexities of emergency vehicle accident claims. We work tirelessly to secure fair compensation and justice for our clients. If you’ve been involved in an accident with an emergency vehicle, contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your case and protect your rights.
