Ambulances are a vital part of emergency medical services, constantly on the move to respond to urgent situations. A Charlotte ambulance accident lawyer is critical to overcome North Carolina’s strict contributory negligence rule, where even 1% fault can block your claim, and government protections that shield ambulance services.
If you were involved in a crash, an ambulance accident lawyer in Charlotte can help you pursue compensation. At Auger & Auger Accident and Injury Lawyers, we’ve been standing up for accident victims across North Carolina since 1995.
Reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced Charlotte truck accident lawyer.
Why You Need a Charlotte Ambulance Accident Attorney on Your Side
Pursuing compensation after an ambulance accident can be challenging, as ambulance drivers are permitted to operate their vehicles outside of the standard rules of the road in the course of providing emergency services. For example, these drivers are allowed to speed and run red lights when performing their duties.
However, ambulance drivers are still required to take reasonable care to avoid accidents and ensure the safety of others on the road. Things get even more complicated when the ambulance is government-owned, as the government has further protections against legal action. Having an experienced lawyer handle your case can be critical for overcoming these obstacles.
When you hire a Charlotte personal injury lawyer at Auger & Auger to handle your case, we will immediately begin a comprehensive investigation into the incident.
Because emergency vehicles operate under unique rules, establishing fault requires a deep understanding of applicable traffic laws and emergency response protocols. As part of our investigation, we may:
- Examine the crash site and gather physical evidence
- Review dashcam or traffic camera footage, if available
- Consult accident reconstruction specialists
- Analyze police, EMS, and incident reports
- Interview witnesses and first responders
- Review dispatch logs and response times
- Obtain maintenance records and driver training documents
- Assess your medical records with expert input to fully document injuries
Once we’ve gathered and analyzed all relevant information, your attorney will build a compelling case on your behalf. Depending on the avenue through which you are pursuing compensation, we will proceed to file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit against the liable party.
We will engage in negotiations to attempt to secure a favorable outcome for your case. If a settlement agreement cannot be reached, we will pursue the full compensation you deserve at trial.
Understanding Contributory Negligence in North Carolina
North Carolina follows a strict contributory negligence rule. This means if you are found even 1% responsible for the accident, you could be completely barred from recovering any compensation. This is especially relevant in ambulance accident cases, where emergency response exemptions may complicate liability.
That’s why it’s crucial to work with an ambulance accident lawyer in Charlotte who understands how to construct a fact-driven, persuasive case that clearly establishes the fault of the responsible party.
Avoiding Delays is Critical After an Ambulance Accident in Charlotte
Legal deadlines can significantly impact your ability to pursue compensation after an ambulance accident. In North Carolina, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. However, if the ambulance involved is operated by a government entity, special rules and shorter deadlines may apply.
If you miss the applicable deadline for your case, you could be out of options for pursuing compensation from the liable party. Hiring an ambulance accident lawyer serving Charlotte as soon as possible is the best way to ensure you are aware of the specific deadlines for your case and that your paperwork is completed accurately and filed on time.
An additional benefit of taking action early is that the sooner you contact an attorney, the more effectively they can preserve critical evidence and secure testimony while the details are still fresh.
Compensation That May Be Available After an Ambulance Crash in Charlotte
Accidents involving ambulances can cause life-altering injuries, emotional turmoil, and significant financial hardship. When pursuing damages, it is important to remember that every accident is different, which means the available forms of compensatory damages will vary from case to case.
A successful claim may allow you to recover compensation for both economic and non-economic losses.
Economic Damages
Economic damages can compensate you for all the financial losses you incurred as a result of your ambulance accident. Some of the most common economic damages available in Charlotte ambulance accident cases include:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical bills
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
Non-Economic Damages
Rather than focusing on the financial toll of your accident, non-economic damages address the impact of the incident on your quality of life. Some of the most common non-economic damages available in Charlotte ambulance accident cases include:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Permanent disability
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Mental anguish
- Loss of companionship
- Loss of consortium
Punitive Damages
In rare cases, punitive damages may also be awarded. Rather than focusing on the losses of the injured party, punitive damages are used to punish the liable party for their actions.
These damages will only be considered if the liable party acted with the intent to cause harm or was criminally negligent.
Speak With an Ambulance Accident Attorney in Charlotte Today
You don’t have to face the aftermath of an ambulance accident alone. These cases involve intricate legal and procedural issues, especially when government agencies are involved. At Auger & Auger, our attorneys average 19 years of personal injury experience and bring a dedicated focus to every case we handle.
We offer free case consultations and operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case. Let us help you hold the responsible party accountable and secure the compensation you need to move forward. Contact us by phone or through our website today to get started.
