US Legal Forms
Legal Resources
Questions & Answers
Helping People
Am I liable for a patient's death due to traffic delays?

Am I liable for a patient's death due to traffic delays?

Q: Why is following an ambulance illegal?

Following an ambulance closely can be considered illegal if it disrupts traffic or poses a danger to others. Emergency vehicles must navigate quickly through traffic, and close pursuit can hinder their response time, potentially leading to accidents or legal penalties for reckless driving.

Q: How long should an ambulance take to get to you?

The response time for an ambulance can vary based on location, traffic conditions, and the urgency of the call. In urban areas, response times are typically around 8-12 minutes, while rural areas may take longer. Factors like weather and road conditions can also impact how quickly an ambulance arrives.

Q: Is following an ambulance illegal?

Yes, following an ambulance too closely can be illegal if it disrupts traffic or creates a hazard. Emergency vehicles have the right of way, and drivers should maintain a safe distance to allow them to operate effectively. Violating traffic laws in this context can result in fines or other penalties.

Full question:

I am an ambulance driver. Last week I could not reach the hospital on time and the patient that I had in my ambulance died. It was my mistake but due to traffic, we just could not make it on time. The family is harassing me by blaming me for the patient’s death. What can I do please help.

Category: Helping People
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Michigan

Answer:

It seems that your inability to reach the hospital on time was not due to gross negligence, as you were trying in good faith to save the patient's life. Legally, ambulance drivers cannot be held liable for civil damages when they provide emergency care in good faith, unless their actions show gross negligence or willful misconduct.

The relevant law in your case is MCLS § 41.711a, which states that any ambulance driver or emergency personnel who, in good faith, renders emergency care at the scene of an emergency is not liable for civil damages resulting from their actions, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct.

In summary, if you acted responsibly and within the scope of your duties, you are likely not liable for the patient's death, given the circumstances you described.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Is chasing an ambulance illegal?

Chasing an ambulance is not inherently illegal, but it can be dangerous and may lead to traffic violations. Emergency vehicles have the right of way, and following too closely can impede their ability to respond to emergencies. It's best to keep a safe distance and allow them to navigate traffic without interference.

Can an ambulance take you to the hospital against your will?

Generally, an ambulance cannot take you to a hospital against your will unless you are unable to make decisions for yourself, such as being unconscious. If you are conscious and able to refuse treatment, you have the right to decline transport. However, emergency medical personnel may still assess your condition and advise you on the risks of refusing care.

Does an ambulance have to take you to the hospital you want to go to?

Ambulances typically take patients to the nearest appropriate medical facility unless the patient is conscious and requests a specific hospital. In emergencies, the priority is to get the patient the care they need as quickly as possible. However, if you have a medical condition requiring specialized care, you may express your preference.