First Responders Strike Victims in Two Separate Bronx Incidents
There is always an element of danger when an emergency vehicle rushes to the scene of a crash or fire. These vehicles often travel at high speeds with sirens and flashing lights. But what happens when these high-speed responses cause more harm than good? Two recent incidents in the Bronx show that innocent people may face serious danger when first responders rush to emergency scenes. Could an auto accident lawyer in the Bronx help if you were struck by a firetruck or ambulance?
Victim in Critical Condition After Accident Involving EMT Vehicle
In May of 2025, multiple sources reported that a smart car had struck a teenager in the Bronx. The victim suffered critical injuries and was hospitalized by first responders. It later became clear that the driver of the smart car was an EMT volunteer, and that the vehicle itself was designated as an EMT vehicle. The volunteer driver reportedly engaged the emergency lights before the crash occurred, and there was no word on whether the pedestrian was crossing lawfully at the time.
Ambulance Crew Allegedly Struck Victim and Kept Driving
In late April, NY Daily News reported that an ambulance crew had struck a road rage victim in the Bronx before driving away. This incident began with a rear-end accident in the Bronx, which led to a road rage confrontation. The victim of this altercation was severely beaten and left unconscious in the street by the aggressors.
The aggressors fled in their SUV, and an FDNY ambulance arrived at the scene to assist the victim. However, the ambulance driver allegedly struck the victim by mistake as he lay in the middle of the street. According to various reports, the ambulance crew then fled the scene without helping the victim.
An FDNY representative told reporters that the incident was “under review.” Fortunately, a second ambulance crew arrived at the scene shortly afterward and helped the victim. However, the victim suffered critical injuries as a result of the entire debacle, and it is not clear how much harm the ambulance impact caused. Authorities have only revealed that the man is “expected to survive.” If he was run over by the ambulance, his injuries may represent permanent disabilities.
Key Takeaways
- A recent rear-end accident and a pedestrian crash both involved emergency vehicles
- First responders must exercise caution when responding to emergencies
- Victims may file claims against the City after injuries caused by first responders
Can an Auto Accident Lawyer in the Bronx Help?
If you were struck and injured by a firetruck or ambulance, an experienced auto accident lawyer in the Bronx may be able to help. With their assistance, you can pursue the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost income, emotional distress, and other damages. While emergency response is important, it should never endanger the general public. Book a consultation with Cohan Law, PLLC to learn more about the next steps.
Sources:
pix11.com/news/local-news/smart-car-strikes-pedestrian-in-the-bronx-nypd/
ems1.com/legal/fdny-ems-crew-under-investigation-for-allegedly-abandoning-bronx-road-rage-victim