Emergency vehicles such as fire trucks, police cars, and ambulances often need to navigate New York City streets at high speeds to respond to urgent situations. Unfortunately, their high-speed maneuvers can sometimes lead to car accidents involving other motorists, pedestrians, or cyclists. If you’ve been involved in an accident with an emergency vehicle, Michael J. Redenburg is here to help.
Common Causes of Emergency Vehicle Accidents
- Failure to yield: Drivers may not see or hear the emergency vehicle in time.
- Speeding: While emergency vehicles are allowed to exceed speed limits, this can lead to dangerous situations.
- Red light running: Emergency vehicles often pass through red lights, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Inexperienced drivers: Emergency vehicle operators may not always have adequate training in navigating through high-traffic areas.
Understanding Liability in Emergency Vehicle Accidents
Emergency vehicle drivers are often given certain legal protections when responding to an emergency, but that doesn’t mean they can drive recklessly. Proving negligence in these cases requires a thorough investigation. Michael J. Redenburg will work to uncover any potential driver error, mechanical issues, or other factors that contributed to the accident.
Steps to Take After an Emergency Vehicle Accident
- Seek medical attention: Prioritize your health and safety.
- File a police report: Ensure the incident is documented, even if it involved a government-operated vehicle.
- Gather evidence: If possible, take photos, gather witness information, and note the vehicle’s identification number.
- Contact Michael J. Redenburg: With experience handling these complex cases, he can guide you through the legal process.
Compensation You May Be Entitled To
Accidents with emergency vehicles can result in serious injuries and significant financial burdens. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
- Pain and suffering
FAQs
Can I file a claim against the city for an emergency vehicle accident?
Yes, you can file a claim against the city, but there are strict deadlines and procedural requirements. Michael J. Redenburg can help navigate this complex process.
What if the emergency vehicle was responding to a call?
While emergency vehicles are allowed to break certain traffic laws, they must still drive with a reasonable level of caution. If negligence is proven, you may have a case.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In New York, you generally have 90 days to file a claim against a government entity.
Local Resources
Resource | Contact Information |
---|---|
New York City Police Department | (646) 610-5000 |
FDNY Fire Trucks Division | (718) 999-2000 |
Michael J. Redenburg, Esq. PC | 32 Broadway, Suite 412, New York, NY 10004 |
New York State Court System | (800) 268-7869 |
New York City Department of Transportation | (212) 839-7200 |
Michael J. Redenburg is standing by to assist you, call for immediate help at 212-240-9465