Have you or a loved one suffered injuries due to an accident with an emergency vehicle or police car? If so, you may be entitled to compensation. Liability is determined by the accident’s circumstances, whether the driver of the emergency vehicle was negligent, and if they were responding to an emergency.
If you’ve been in an accident with an emergency vehicle, it’s in your best interest to immediately contact a proven Los Angeles car accident lawyer to discuss your case.
Our car accident lawyers at Steinberg Injury Lawyers are experienced, proven, and will aggressively pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
Contact us today for your free initial consultation. Learn more about what to do if you are hit by an emergency vehicle below.
What If You’re Injured by an Emergency Vehicle or Police Car?
After an accident with a police car or emergency vehicle, you may assume that you will be at fault no matter the circumstances. However, this is not the case. Accidents involving ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars are handled differently than other types of car accidents, but drivers and the city can still be held liable for negligent activities.
After you’ve been in an accident with a state or municipality-owned vehicle, you should:
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Contact the police
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Collect photo and video evidence of the damage and the scene
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Never admit fault
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Seek immediate medical attention
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Contact a Los Angeles car accident lawyer
How is Fault Determined?
In most car accidents, the fault is determined by negligence, which generally means breaking the law. However, California exempts emergency vehicles from typical traffic laws in certain situations.
According to Vehicle Code 21055, police and emergency vehicles can be exempt from traffic laws if they respond to an emergency while reasonably using their vehicle's sirens and lights.
If they were not responding to an emergency, they are held to the same standard as any other driver. This includes instances where a police officer or emergency responder negligently uses sirens to run red lights or bypass traffic.
Even if they caused an accident while responding to an emergency, they might still be liable for injuries and damages if they are at fault for the accident.
Who Will Pay For My Injuries?
California is a comparative negligence state. Negligence is determined by the percentage of fault each driver shares. For instance, if the emergency vehicle or police car is liable for 85 percent of the accident, the city will have to pay for 80 percent of your injuries and damages. IF they are 100 percent at fault, they will be required to compensate you fairly.
Contact Steinberg Injury Lawyers Today
Pursuing a personal injury case against police officers or emergency vehicle drivers can be a complicated process. The claims process is typically longer, more complex, and frustrating. Working with an experienced car accident lawyer helps to ensure you have someone on your side fighting for your rights and advocating for you.
You don’t have to pursue car accident claims against the government on your own. We’re here to help. Contact Steinberg Injury Lawyers today for your free initial consultation with an established car accident lawyer.
