We all recognize the loud sound of a siren and the bright lights racing down the road to an emergency. In Michigan, this signal tells drivers to move to the right side and reduce speed so the emergency vehicle can pass by them. Although we have specific rules for giving way to emergency vehicles, they also need to follow laws to reach the emergency safely.
Emergency vehicle accidents can have devastating consequences, not only for those directly involved but also for bystanders and other motorists. These accidents can result in severe injuries, property damage, and even loss of life. Both emergency responders and other road users must do their part to keep everyone safe.
Emergency Vehicle Accident Statistics
Michigan’s Metro Detroit area has recently received an influx of emergency vehicle crashes over the last few years. These collisions are costly and can cause serious injuries to those involved. Most recently, a fire truck got into a collision with a minivan on Detroit’s West Side. Seven people were taken to the hospital with minor injuries according to ClickOnDetroit.
In 2022, Emergency vehicles were involved in 2,515 crashes, 9 of those being fatal. There were 2,009 police vehicles, 234 fire vehicles, and 354 ambulances involved in crashes according to the Michigan Traffic Crash Facts.
What are Emergency-Authorized Vehicles Permitted to do?
Despite the move-over law in Michigan, emergency-authorized vehicles going lights and sirens must still be cautious of other road users.
According to MCL – Section 257.603, drivers of emergency-authorized vehicles may:
- Park or stand, irrespective of this act.
- Proceed past a red or stop signal or stop sign, but only after slowing down as may be necessary for safe operation.
- Exceed the posted speed limits so long as he or she does not endanger life or property.
- Disregard regulations governing the direction of movement or turning in a specified direction.
What Laws Must They Adhere to?
While emergency vehicles have certain privileges, they must still adhere to laws designed to ensure safety. These include:
- Exercising due care and caution to avoid endangering life and property.
- Ensuring that their actions do not cause unnecessary risk to other road users.
- When exercising these privileges, use audible and visual signals (sirens and lights).
- Slowing down as necessary when approaching intersections or areas with limited visibility.
Common Causes of Emergency Vehicle Accidents
Emergency vehicle accidents can happen due to many things, including:
- Excessive Speed: Emergency vehicles often travel at high speeds to reach their destinations promptly, increasing the risk of losing control or colliding with other vehicles or pedestrians.
- Disregarding Traffic Signals: While emergency responders are permitted to proceed through intersections with caution, even when facing a red light or stop sign, this practice can lead to collisions if other drivers fail to yield the right-of-way.
- Driver Fatigue: Emergency responders work long and demanding shifts, which can lead to fatigue and impaired judgment, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Even emergency responders can be distracted by communication devices, navigation systems, or other in-vehicle equipment, leading to a lapse in attention and potential accidents.
- Poor Visibility: Inclement weather conditions, such as heavy rain, fog, or snow, can reduce visibility and make it more challenging for emergency responders to navigate safely.
- Vehicle Maintenance Issues: Mechanical failures or inadequate maintenance of emergency vehicles can contribute to accidents, compromising the safety of both responders and civilians.
Understanding Liability in Emergency Vehicle Accidents
Determining liability in emergency vehicle accidents can be hard, as various factors come into play. In general, liability depends on whether the emergency responder acted reasonably and with due regard for the safety of others, given the circumstances of the emergency.
If an emergency responder’s actions were deemed reckless, negligent, or in violation of established protocols, they and their employer (typically a government agency or municipality) may be held liable for any resulting damages or injuries.
However, if the emergency responder followed proper procedures and exercised reasonable care, liability may fall on the other parties involved, such as civilian drivers who failed to yield the right-of-way or pedestrians who disregarded traffic signals.
What to Do If You’ve Been in an Accident with an Emergency Vehicle
Khamo Law is a firm knowledgeable in vehicle accident cases, including those involving emergency vehicles. Their attorneys understand Michigan’s emergency vehicle laws, can help protect your rights, and get you fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
While emergency responders play a crucial role in our society, they are also bound by laws and regulations designed to protect public safety. If you’ve been injured due to negligence, contact our office at (248) 466-0606 or visit our website for more information.