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Car accidents can be caused for a variety of reasons, and one of them is due to medical emergencies. This blog will help you understand the complexities of liability when it comes to car accidents that were caused due to a medical emergency. It’s important to note that those with a sudden medical emergency may not be held liable for the crash, but that is not the same for those with pre-existing conditions.
Pre-Existing Conditions
When it comes to car accidents caused by medical emergencies, there are different rules for those with pre-existing conditions versus those without. For example, suppose someone has a pre-existing condition such as diabetes or heart disease and suffers an episode while driving. In that case, they may be liable for any damage or injury caused by their loss of control.
In these cases, the driver’s insurance company may investigate whether or not they were aware of their condition and if they had taken all necessary precautions, such as informing their doctor and taking medications as prescribed.
Sudden Medical Emergencies
In contrast, those who experience a sudden medical emergency while driving—such as a stroke or seizure—may not be held liable for any damages resulting from the accident. Some examples of sudden medical emergencies include:
- Loss of orientation
- Choking
- Heart attack
- Mental impairments
- Loss of consciousness
- Pain
If a person experienced one of the listed emergencies with no related pre-existing medical condition, they would not be held liable for the crash. It’s crucial to note that the driver who experienced the medical emergency and caused the crash had no previous history of a medical condition that could have caused that emergency.
They must also prove that the medical condition was severe enough to cause the accident and that they had no reason to foresee the emergency.
Sacramento Car Accident Attorneys
Liability when it comes to car accidents caused by medical emergencies can be complex and confusing, so it's essential to understand how these laws work before making any assumptions about your own situation. If you have been involved in an accident due to a medical emergency, contact the Del Rio & Caraway, P.C. team today. We can evaluate your situation and provide you with some options on how to go about obtaining compensation for your injuries.
Call us today at (916) 229-6755 or visit our website to fill out a consultation request form.
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