CALL 24/7Windsor police are investigating a serious collision in Amherstburg after an SUV reportedly drove through a stop sign and struck an Essex-Windsor EMS ambulance on Tuesday afternoon. Three people were injured in the crash.
Police and emergency crews responded just before 2:30 p.m. to the intersection of Alma Street and 5th Concession Road North. According to a police media release, officers arrived to find both the SUV and ambulance in a roadside ditch. The SUV had overturned, and both vehicles sustained heavy damage.
A preliminary investigation found that the SUV was travelling southbound on 5th Concession at a high rate of speed and failed to stop at a posted stop sign on Alma Street before colliding with the westbound ambulance.
An Essex County spokesperson confirmed that no patients were inside the ambulance at the time. Two paramedics suffered minor injuries, while the driver of the SUV was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
A third paramedic was later injured while removing equipment from the damaged vehicle.
CUPE 2974, the union representing Essex-Windsor EMS paramedics, shared that the injured responders immediately began treating the other driver, calling their actions an example of “incredible resilience.”
Police say the 50-year-old SUV driver, who has not been identified, is now facing a careless driving charge as the investigation continues. The Windsor Police Amherstburg Detachment is asking anyone with information to come forward.
What Victims Should Know After a Crash Involving an Emergency Vehicle
Collisions with ambulances and other emergency service vehicles can be more complex than typical roadway accidents. Multiple agencies may be involved in the investigation, and determining fault often requires reviewing speed, right-of-way, emergency response protocols, and traffic laws governing emergency vehicles.
Injured victims – including paramedics, passengers, or other motorists – may have options to pursue compensation for medical care, lost income, and pain and suffering. Because these cases involve municipal and provincial entities, legal guidance is strongly recommended to ensure deadlines and notice requirements are met.
Contact Our Team for Help
If you or a loved one was injured in a crash involving an ambulance or any emergency vehicle, our team is ready to help. At Greg Monforton & Partners, our auto accident lawyers offer free consultations, and there are no upfront fees – you only pay if we recover compensation on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who may be liable when a driver runs a stop sign and causes a crash with an emergency vehicle?
Liability may fall on the driver who disobeyed the traffic control device. Additional investigation may review speed, visibility, right-of-way, witness statements, and any dash-cam or traffic-camera footage.
Can paramedics injured in an on-duty crash pursue compensation?
Yes. Injured paramedics may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits and, in certain cases, may also have the right to pursue a claim against an at-fault driver for additional damages not covered by workplace insurance.
What happens when an ambulance is hit while responding to or transporting patients?
Crashes involving an ambulance often trigger a detailed investigation because emergency responders have specific exemptions under the Highway Traffic Act when they are answering a call. When lights and sirens are activated, other drivers are required to yield the right of way. However, emergency vehicles must still operate with due regard for the safety of everyone on the road.
What should a victim do if they were injured in a collision involving an emergency vehicle?
Seek medical attention immediately, gather photos and witness information if possible, request a copy of the police report, and speak with an experienced injury lawyer who understands emergency-vehicle collision laws and municipal liability.
