Why Ambulance Negligence Can Be Medical Malpractice

The common perception is that because ambulance personnel are responding to an emergency situation they are exempt from any medical malpractice claims.  This is not the case.

Ambulance personnel are held to the same standard of care that governs all medical professionals and dictates how they may be held responsible in the case that they have deviated from the standard of care.

What is the standard of care for ambulance personnel?

The standard of care is that which would be provided by any reasonably prudent EMT or paramedic. If this standard of care is not met and it leads to injury, there may be a medical malpractice case to be had.

When assessing whether ambulance negligence is considered medical malpractice there are a number of factors which are taken into consideration including, but not limited to, the weather, traffic situations, ambulance staffing levels and more.

If I suspect ambulance malpractice how long do I have to bring my case?

Generally the statute of limitations on an ambulance case being brought against a private company is two years, however if the case is against a town or municipality the window for filing a claim is often much shorter.  In all cases it is important to have you injuries documented and to contact a medical malpractice attorney in a timely manner.