Each year the United States sustains 2,500 fire truck collisions. While the likelihood of a fire truck accident may seem rare to many people, it is actually a common occurrence on American roadways today. While it is typically hard to miss a fire truck passing with its loud sirens, honking horns, and flashing lights, a fire truck accident is far more probable than most motorists believe. In fact, about 1,100 injuries or deaths result annually from fire truck crashes around the country.

Most Oklahoma drivers have grown accustom to the manner in which fire trucks typically operate. Almost always traveling to an emergency situation, these fire trucks are driving at high speeds and passing through red lights in order to get to the fire victims in a timely manner. Unfortunately, those motorists who neglect to alter their driving behavior in the presence of a flashing fire truck are in serious risk of a crash as well as a number of serious injuries.

The Edwards Law Firm has always supported the firefighters in Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Texas. We understand the importance that these people play in the overall safety of the states. Sadly, far too many motorists react incorrectly when in the presence of an emergency vehicle, leading to a wide range of injuries. If you or a loved one has been involved in a fire truck accident, our OK personal injury lawyers are here for you.

To learn more about your options, please complete a Free Case Review form on this page.

Fire Truck Accident Causes

When a fire truck is racing down the road it is on a serious mission to put out a fire and save lives. Saving thousands upon thousands of lives each year, it is absolutely essential for all other motorists to understand just how to operate their vehicles when a fire truck is speeding through an intersection or roadway. Firefighters are under immense pressures to arrive at their destination as quickly as possible, as every second matter in the event of a fire. As a result, all drivers must adjust their driving habits accordingly.

It is often within the nature of an emergency situation for the operators of these fire trucks to exhibit a bit of reckless driving habits. From weaving in and out of lanes to rushing through intersections, even while the light is red, fire trucks must break some of the traffic laws in order to save lives. When the current traffic is not prepared to react to an oncoming emergency vehicle, the likelihood of a fire truck accident increases.

The following are the most common causes of fire truck collisions:

  • Right of Way: all vehicles are expected to give a fire truck the right of way when their lights are flashing en route to address a fire hazard. Drivers who fail to get out of the way of the fire truck often cause crashes to occur.
  • Speeding: fire trucks must speed in order to rush to a destination or emergency situation. Unfortunately, this speeding often gives other motorists little time to react, thus causing an accident.
  • Equipment: firefighters are vastly limited in the time that they have to successful do their job. As such, failing to properly secure ladders or hoses has been linked to causing accidents.
  • Fail to Follow Rules: firefighters operating the trucks often fail to stop at red lights and stop signs, even though they are required to by law. When a driver speeds through an intersection, a variety of collisions may occur.

The second leading cause of death for firefighters is motor vehicle collision, according to research from the United States Fire Administration. Clearly, the hazards linked to the typical travel habits of a fire truck lead to a large number of traffic accidents each year. If you or a loved one has been involved in a fire truck accident, the personal injury attorneys of Edwards Law Firm are here.

Contact an Experienced Tulsa Accident Lawyer Today

The Edwards Law Firm strives to treat each and every one of our clients with unmatched care and attention. We understand how stressful these situations can be and therefore work tirelessly to make our clients feel as comfortable as possible during these trying times. If the careless driving action of another causes injury to you, this person must be held accountable for their behaviors.

If you or a loved one has suffered in a traffic crash, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. From medical expenses to lost wages and income, our Tulsa personal injury lawyers are prepared to fight for MAXIMUM compensation for you.

Fill out a Free Case Review form to learn more today.