Usually it is assumed that police cars are on the scene of an accident after it has occurred to assist those who were involved. The reality however is there are times in which a police car is actually a part of a car accident. This is illustrated by a car wreck that occurred earlier this month in Miami.
A marked Miami Police cruiser was involved in the accident that took place at the intersection of Sixth Street and Northeast First Avenue. The circumstances surrounding the collision are unknown at this point but both cars were severely damaged in the incident. The accident is currently under investigation by the Miami Police Department.
Fortunately, neither of the vehicle’s occupants sustained serious injuries in the accident. Nonetheless both drivers were taken to Jackson Memorial Hospital’s Ryder Trauma Center. The police officer in the cruiser was reportedly feeling light-headed and dizzy. The driver in the other car sustained bruises and minor cuts.
Though thankfully this accident appears to have not resulted in serious injuries, this is not always the case. In some cases catastrophic injuries such as spinal and brain injuries can occur. When this happens the injured parties may be able to receive financial compensation via a personal injury lawsuit.
Personal injury lawsuits are civil cases that seek to hold negligent parties responsible for an accident accountable. These lawsuits have time limitations and are often complicated. Accordingly, for those who find themselves in this situation, it is important to contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible.
Source: The Miami Herald, “Miami police cruiser involved in crash,” Nov. 4, 2011