Emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics are responsible for identifying life-threatening injuries and conditions, administering first aid, and getting their patients to the hospital as quickly as possible. Unfortunately, in some situations, even the most careful and well-equipped professionals are unable to save their patients. But when they fail to provide a basic level of care, surviving family members may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the workers, the ambulance company, or other providers.

Common Grounds for Wrongful Death Claims Against EMTs

1. Ambulance Accidents

On average, ambulances are involved in approximately 4,500 accidents per year, many of which are caused by recklessness on the part of their drivers. For patients in critical condition, even relatively minor incidents can prove fatal, either due to the impact itself or delays in getting the medical attention they need.

2. Medication Errors

EMTs and paramedics are only allowed to administer a limited number of medications, but they should still conduct their due diligence beforehand. Drug interactions can cause potentially lethal side effects, so they should always ask for a thorough medical history before going through with anything.

3. Failure to Communicate With Hospital Staff

When a patient arrives at the hospital, the EMT is responsible for informing the hospital staff about their patient’s condition, steps taken to stabilize them, and any other information they may need. Failure to communicate these clearly can result in patients not receiving the necessary treatment, with fatal outcomes that could have been avoided.

4. Missing Equipment or Poor Staffing

Even the most highly-trained first responders can’t stabilize a patient if they don’t have the necessary tools, or the devices they need haven’t been properly maintained. When poor staffing practices, unnecessary delays, or missing equipment cause the death of a loved one, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the ambulance company that made these negligent decisions.

If you’ve lost a loved one due to the carelessness of EMTs or paramedics, the legal team at Salerno & Associates in Omaha, NE, has the experience to help you collect compensation for your losses. With over 30 years of experience and a reputation for aggressive, effective representation, they have the resources to investigate your claim and negotiate with insurers on your behalf. Visit their website for more on their wrongful death services, or call (402) 502-9002 to discuss your case with a member of their team.