What happens if you are in a road accident with an emergency vehicle?

Every motorist is aware of what they should do if they become aware of an emergency services vehicle nearby. It is common knowledge that getting out of the way as quickly and safely as possible is necessary in these situations.

However, ambulances, fire engines and police cars are not immune to road accidents, nor are they exempt from blame in these circumstances. We’ve taken a look at what you should do if you are involved in an accident with an emergency vehicle.

Who is to blame?

While it can be tempting to assume that a court will always find in favour of the emergency services in these situations, this is not the case.

In fact, while it is accepted that emergency vehicles have right of way and will often be travelling at increased speeds, their drivers are just as responsible for ensuring they observe the rules of the road as members of the public. Indeed, if drivers are not responding to an emergency situation they are expected to act in the same way as every other motorist.

If they are responding to a call out, they still have to proceed with caution, passing through red traffic lights only if it is safe to do so. They must also make sure their siren is sounding and their lights are flashing.

On a practical level, this means that if you are involved in a collision with an emergency vehicle and blame can be established, you could still receive compensation just as in any other road accident.

What should you do?

As with any road accident, the best thing to do is to contact a solicitor as soon as possible. All claims of this nature must be registered within three years, so it is in your interest to get your claim in early.

Sheldon Davidson Solicitors are experts in handling a broad range of Personal Injury Claims, including everything from road traffic accident claims and animal injury claims to Medical Negligence Claims.

Call Sheldon Davidson, Manchester's specialist Personal Injury Solicitors,  today to discuss your situation with a member of our team. We will review your case thoroughly to establish its likely chances of success, and advise you on the best course of action going forward.