Whether you have gone into labor or have been injured at work, it is common for most people to respond by calling an ambulance. However, evidence suggests that riding in the back of an ambulance might be more dangerous than utilizing an alternative transportation method. In fact, a study that was published in the Journal of the Emergency Medical Services indicated that patients and other passengers who are in the back compartment when an accident occurs account for 72 percent of all traffic related fatalities that involve an ambulance.
What are the Pros of Calling an Ambulance?
If you call an ambulance after an injury or during a medical emergency, you will be able to receive assistance before you get to the hospital. Additionally, the ambulance driver can legally break the speed limit and go through red lights, and they have the proper equipment on board to prevent further injuries from occurring. The Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) who are on the ambulance will have the necessary medical training to stabilize you in most instances, and they can also deliver babies if it becomes impossible to get to the hospital on time.
What are the Cons of being Transported in an Ambulance?
Even though an ambulance can move through the streets more quickly than a standard passenger vehicle, you will lose time by waiting for them to arrive. Because of this, many people choose to have someone else drive them to the hospital. It is also important to note that using alternative transportation to get to the hospital will reduce your risk of being seriously injured during an accident, and you will be able to avoid paying an exorbitant ambulance fee.
What should I do if the Ambulance is Involved in an Accident?
If you are in the process of being driven to the hospital and the ambulance is involved in an accident, you might be able to seek legal recourse for any additional injuries that you sustain. However, you will need to determine who was responsible for the accident. For example, if you are being driven to a hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, when a drunk driver crashes into the ambulance, you should file a lawsuit against the other driver. However, you might be able to take legal action against the ambulance company as well if your injuries were exacerbated by an EMT who did not follow all of the proper safety protocols. Either way, it is a good idea to contact an auto accident attorney to learn more information about your legal rights.
Even though it can be significantly more dangerous to ride in an ambulance, they do serve a very useful function. After all, many people would be unable to get the proper medical attention without them, and there are several circumstances when an injured individual could be caused a lot more damage if they are moved by people who do not have medical training. Therefore, if you are in an emergency situation, you should carefully consider your options before you decide to have a friend take you to the hospital.
Melanie Fleury is a mother of four who has had to make the decision whether to transport her children personally or to call an ambulance in more than one situation. Each situation is different, however, her close proximity to the hospital makes it an easier decision to make. Stokes & Kopitsky, P.A., at http://www.stokesinjurylawyers.com/atlanta-car-accident-lawyer.html, know that traffic wrecks are bound to happen, but if you are injured in an accident, you may be eligible to be compensated for your injuries and should contact a reputable lawyer in your area.