For most Colorado residents, emergency responders are the saviors who appear on the scene of dangerous situations. Most people outside of these professions have no trouble understanding that being injured at work is a real possibility for these brave men and women. However, not many people would automatically think of them being involved in a traffic accident while on duty.
A fire truck responding to the scene of an accident in which a vehicle hydroplaned and crashed into another car became embroiled in a serious accident. The truck flipped over during the incident, trapping five fire fighters inside. After they were extricated, they were taken to a local hospital in their home state for treatment.
Two of the Texas fire fighters suffered serious injuries and remained hospitalized in the Intensive Care Unit at last report. The injuries suffered by two others in the truck required the victims to return to the hospital, but they were later released. The condition of the fifth fire fighter was not reported. Ironically, an ambulance responding to the fire truck accident was involved in a collision as well.
The emergency personnel involved in these accidents may receive workers’ compensation benefits similar to those available for Colorado residents who are injured at work. However, it may be possible to file a third-party claim against the party or parties deemed responsible for the accident to supplement any benefits received. If a court determines that the injuries were due to the negligence of another, a judgment for damages typically seen in these cases could be awarded.
Source: kwtx.com, “Two Firefighters Critical After Crashes Involving Fire Truck, Ambulance”, April 17, 2015
