Fire Apparatus Accident
Three people were injured Monday, May 3rd in an accident involving a Beech Grove, Indiana Fire Department fire engine and another vehicle. The accident occurred when a SUV pulled out in front of the fire engine while it was responding to an emergency run. The first television reports indicated that an obstruction caused by low hanging tree limbs could be to blame for the woman not seeing the fire engine.
State of Indiana Code states that: an emergency vehicle while responding with red lights and siren should have the right of way. "IC 9-21-8-35 Emergency Vehicles: yield of right-of-way. Section 35. (a) states: “Upon the immediate approach of an authorized emergency vehicle, when the person who drives the authorized emergency vehicle is giving audible signal by siren or displaying alternately flashing red, red and white, or red and blue lights, a person who drives another vehicle shall do the following unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer: (1) Yield the right of way. (2) Immediately drive to a position parallel to and as close to the right hand edge or curb of the high way clear of any intersection. (3) Stop and remain in the position until the authorized emergency vehicle has passed.”
Firefighters and police officers will be the first to say that when responding to an emergency; there are two things of importance. The first thing is time. A quick response to fire, emergency medical incidents and other issues that involve public safety are time critical. Secondly, getting to the location with all the supporting emergency apparatus required. Everyone responding has a role in the emergency, either to help with the initial situation, be it a fire, domestic, medical or any number of things, and to provide backup support.
With society’s use of cell phones today, too many times our attention is distracted from the road. Many States have outlawed the use of cell phones and Indiana has outlawed the use of texting while driving. Everyone must stay alert and drive defensively, including fire fighters and police officers.
If you are involved in an accident, protect your rights and contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Tom Hastings of The Hastings Law Firm in Indianapolis has experience in auto, truck and accidents involving emergency vehicles. Contact Tom or his any of the associates at www.lawindianapolis.com.
