Fire Engine Accident Compensation

Am I entitled to claim fire engine accident compensation if my car collided with a fire truck that was driving on the wrong side of the road?

Eoin P. Campbell, LL.B., Solicitor

Editor in Chief

Eoin P. Campbell

You may claim fire engine accident compensation if full or partial negligence can be proven on the part of the fire engine driver. Even though emergency service vehicles are allowed a wide berth around normal traffic rules, the drivers still owe other road users a duty of care. Driving on the wrong side of the road may constitute negligence, but remember that you also have a duty of care towards the emergency vehicle. You may be questioned as to why you did not accommodate for the fire engine to safely pass and if you do not have a valid reason, you may face accusations of contributory negligence and your compensation value may be significantly reduced.

That said, it is possible to still pursue a fire engine accident compensation claim even if you are considered to have been partially to blame for the accident. To not be in any doubt over these types of issues that may affect your claim, if would be recommended that you consult with a solicitor at the first possible opportunity.

Whether you hold some of the blame or not, your fire engine accident compensation claim would be greatly supported if you had carried out these standard proceedings following the accident. Your first priority should have been your health. It is highly important that you had your injuries examined by a medical professional following the accident. If the accident did not call for a Gardai presence, you should have collected witness details and taken pictures at the scene. A report of the accident should have been filed at the local Garda station.

In an initial consultation – which most solicitors offer without charge – he or she would be able to assess your claim and advise you on the best way to proceed, and also give a preliminary estimate as to how much fire engine accident compensation you are likely to receive. No two claims are identical and there are other issues that you may not be aware of that could be explained to you by an experienced solicitor.