On April 17th, 2024, NBC Bay Area reported that several people were hurt after a fire truck crashed into a home in Stockton. The emergency services hit the residential structure after a collision with another vehicle. Two people were hurt in the crash—with one man suffering serious injuries. Here, our Stockton truck accident lawyers explain what we know about the case and provide an overview of fire truck crash claims more broadly in California.
Crash in Stockton Sends a Fire Truck into Residential Home
In the early morning hours of April 17th in Stockton, chaos erupted when a fire truck was entangled in a multi-vehicle collision. The incident occurred at West Lane and East Alpine Avenue. The force of the collision caused the fire truck to be careened into a nearby home. This bad accident left two men hospitalized. One person was listed in critical condition. The other person suffered more modest injuries. As authorities navigated the wreckage, the exact trigger of the crash was not yet determined. A comprehensive investigation is still underway.
Emergency Services Vehicles are at Higher Risk of Collisions
Unfortunately, emergency services vehicles—including ambulances, fire trucks, and police cars—face a higher inherent risk of collisions because of the urgent nature of their duties. For obvious and justifiable reasons, emergency vehicles frequently speed through congested traffic and navigate risky maneuvers to respond to crises swiftly. Despite their training and the use of sirens and lights to alert other drivers, the combination of high speeds, sudden stops, and complex navigation can lead to motor vehicle collisions.
What to Do If You are Involved in a Crash With a Fire Truck
Firefighters do so much to protect our community from serious safety risks. At the same time, there is a risk that you could be involved in a collision with a vehicle from the Stockton Fire Department or another local department. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath of a bad accident is essential. Here are four steps to take if you were involved in a crash with a fire truck:
- Stop Your Vehicle and Call the Police: Involved in any type of crash with a fire truck? You need to stop your vehicle. California law requires all motorists involved in a collision to stay at the scene and report the crash. A fire truck may or may not remain at the scene given the severity of the crash and the extent of the emergency. Contact law enforcement—such as the Stockton Police Department—to report the crash.
- Seek Immediate Medical Care for Any Injuries: The chaotic moments following a crash can be overwhelming, and adrenaline may mask pain from injuries. Assess yourself and any passengers for injuries and call for medical assistance if needed. Even if the injuries appear minor, it is still essential to visit a healthcare professional for a thorough check. Notably, you cannot bring a personal injury claim in California without supporting medical records.
- Document the Crash: While waiting for the police and other emergency services, if you are able to, gather evidence about the crash. Among other things, you should take photographs of the scene, take photographs of the vehicle damage, and obtain contact information with any person who witnessed the crash. You should also write down details about the crash. For example, were the fire truck’s emergency lights/sirens on? If not, that is a relevant fact.
- Consult With an Attorney: You do not have to take on the personal injury claims process alone. A top-tier Stockton truck accident lawyer can protect your rights and your interests after a crash with an emergency services vehicle such as a fire truck.
Understanding the California Tort Claims Act
Fire truck accident claims in California are governed by the California Tort Claims Act. The law sets specific guidelines and procedures for filing claims against governmental entities and their employees, including fire departments. The law outlines the somewhat limited circumstances under which the government can be held liable.
You Have Less Time to Take Action: Under the California Tort Claims Act, injured victims must adhere to strict timelines for filing a notice of claim. In general, the notice must be submitted to the appropriate government agency within six months of the date of the accident. Failure to provide timely notice can result in the forfeiture of the right to pursue a claim against the government entity. Be proactive: It is crucial to consult with an experienced attorney after a bad crash.
You May a Claim Against a Government Entity for Compensation
Were in a crash with a fire truck? You need compensation to pay bills and cover your damages. The State of California allows injured victims to seek financial relief for the full extent of their losses, including out-of-pocket costs and non-economic losses. However, bringing a claim against a government entity—including after a crash with an emergency services vehicle like a fire truck—can be especially challenging. A proactive approach is key. Our Stockton fire truck accident injury lawyers are prepared to help victims and families seek financial compensation for:
- Property damage, including vehicle repairs;
- Ambulance transportation and emergency room care;
- Hospital bills and other health care costs;
- Physical therapy and rehabilitative services;
- Loss of wages and loss of earning power;
- Pain and suffering & emotional distress;
- Long-term disability and physical impairment; and
- Wrongful death of a family member.
Call Our Stockton Truck Accident Attorney for a Free Consultation
At Redkey Gordon Law Corp, our California truck accident attorney has the skills and experience to take on the full range of claims, including fire truck collisions. If you or your loved one was hurt in a fire truck crash, we are here to help. Give us a phone call now or contact us online to arrange your free, no strings attached initial consultation. From our Stockton office, we handle truck accident cases throughout the wider region, including in Sacramento, Lodi, Manteca, Sutter Creek, and Galt.