Florida drivers rely on emergency vehicles during critical situations, trusting them to offer assistance in the event of an accident or emergency. While emergency vehicle operators enjoy certain exemptions from traffic regulations under Florida law, such as the ability to bypass some traffic regulations in the line of duty, these privileges don’t permit reckless driving. If you were injured in a collision with an emergency vehicle, you may have grounds to pursue justice if the operator was acting negligently.
At Marsalisi Law, our team is dedicated to helping you protect your rights and interests in the event of an accident. Filing claims against government entities can pose challenges, making having an experienced attorney in your corner essential. Our esteemed attorney, Frank P. Marsalisi, understands the unique complexities of government claims and has a proven track record of achieving successful outcomes for his clients. He is fluent in both English and Spanish and will personalize his approach to meet your unique needs.
Who Can Be Held Liable if I Am Injured in an Accident with an Emergency Vehicle?
While emergency vehicles like police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances enjoy certain exemptions during crisis response, they must adhere to standard road rules in all other situations. When responding to a crisis, vehicle operators are allowed to exceed the posted speed limit, run red lights, and ignore stop signs as long as they slow down beforehand. They may also navigate against the flow of traffic or bypass turning laws to fulfill their duties.
Despite these exemptions, the government agencies responsible for the emergency vehicle may be held accountable for injuries if the operator was acting negligently. For example, if the operator ran a red light without slowing down first or exceeded the speed limit in a way that endangered the lives or property of others, you may have grounds to file a claim against the government agency for your injuries and other losses. These claims are intricate and come with strict filing deadlines, underscoring the urgency of contacting an experienced attorney promptly.
What Are My Duties as a Driver When an Emergency Vehicle Approaches?
To pursue a successful claim against the entity responsible for your accident, you must follow Florida’s Move Over Law when approached by an emergency vehicle. Under Florida law, motorists must yield the right of way and immediately do the following:
- Pull over as close as possible to the curb;
- Clear the intersection;
- Remain stopped until the emergency vehicle passes.
Fortunately, in Florida, you might still seek monetary compensation for your losses even if you share partial fault in the accident. Under Florida’s modified comparative negligence rule, accident victims may recover damages for their losses if they are less than 51% responsible for the collision. However, the total monetary compensation is reduced in proportion to their percentage of fault. A skilled attorney can review your case to determine how Florida’s laws may impact your claim and help you determine the best path forward to pursue justice.
Partner With a First-Class Car Accident Attorney at Marsalisi Law
Dealing with the aftermath of an emergency vehicle accident can be overwhelming. Marsalisi Law is here to offer the support and expertise you need. Our esteemed attorney, Frank P. Marsalisi, is committed to advocating for your rights and securing the best possible outcome for your case. He understands your stress and will help you navigate every step of Florida’s intricate legal process.
Call us at (727) 800-5052 or complete our contact form today to schedule a free consultation. Marsalisi Law is where law gets personal!
