Here's something you probably have never thought of: what happens if you're injured in an accident caused by a speeding emergency vehicle?
We see police cars, fire trucks, and ambulances speeding by us every day on the roadways. In Maryland, operators of emergency vehicles have certain privileges when it comes to traffic laws, but that does not mean that they are completely immune from liability if they negligently cause an accident.
Accidents involving emergency vehicles do happen, and in some circumstances, the emergency vehicle can be held liable. Maryland traffic laws allow emergency vehicles to run red lights and pass stop signs as long as they first slowed down to ensure they could pass safely. These vehicles are also allowed to exceed the speed limit as long as it is possible to do safely.
Ordinary negligence of emergency vehicles operated by a government entity can only result in, at most, $30,000 in insurance coverage. However, if you can prove gross negligence on the part of the emergency vehicle, Maryland law caps damages at $400,000.
If you've been injured in an accident caused by the negligence of an emergency vehicle, call the attorneys at Portner & Shure for a free consultation today (410) 995-1515.
