Fire Truck Accidents

A firetruck is a very large vehicle and because of the size and mass, most firefighters are not seriously injured in the most common crashes.
Nonetheless, because these trucks are so heavy, their center of gravity leads them especially susceptible to rollovers.
Firefighters sometimes forget to buckle their seat-belts, leaving them at high risk, especially if there is a rollover accident.
In the video below, depending on angle and speed, a fire truck can remain very stable or may rollover. Over 2/3 of firefighters' deaths in motor vehicle accidents come about as a result of a rollover.
Where Fire Truck Accidents HappenMost fire truck accidents happen near intersections in the PM. Although firefighters are injured and killed frequently in crashes, typically (75% of the time), it's the driver in the other vehicle who is killed or injured.
Causes of Fire Truck AccidentsEvery accident involving a fire truck is different. The causes of the accident could be various including:
- Excessive Speed
- Failure to check out the vehicle safety-wise before leaving the station
- Fatigue
- What's referred to as "siren syndrome"
- Mistakes in backing a vehicle unsafe Passing
- And many many more.
I'm Ed Smith, a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento. An experienced injury attorney who has handled fire truck accidents can help. Whether you need help for an injured firefighter or need help because you or a family member has been injured by a fire truck accident, I can help. Call me today at 916.921.6400 or 800.404.5400 for free, friendly advice.
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Editor’s Note: This page has been updated for accuracy and relevancy [cha 11.17.20]