The lawsuit filed by attorney Travis Mayor of Mayor Law, LLC, on behalf of William Hoesch against Columbia River Fire & Rescue seeks approximately $900,000 in damages following a collision between Hoesch and an ambulance on October 27, 2022, in Rainier, Oregon. According to the complaint filed in Oregon Circuit Court, Hoesch was cycling west on West C Street when he entered an intersection and was struck by an ambulance making a sudden right turn. The collision resulted in damage to Hoesch's bicycle and caused multiple injuries, including harm to his face, left hand, hip, and diaphragm, with Hoesch reportedly continuing to experience persistent pain, stiffness, and restricted mobility.
The lawsuit alleges negligence on the part of the ambulance service, a claim that Columbia River Fire & Rescue has acknowledged but referred to their legal counsel for further handling. Adding to the controversy is the fact that Hoesch was billed $1,862 for transportation to the hospital following the collision with the very ambulance that struck him, raising ethical questions about billing practices in emergency situations when the service provider may be at fault. The Rainier Police Department's report reveals conflicting accounts, with Hoesch maintaining he attempted to pass the ambulance on the right when it turned unexpectedly, while the ambulance driver stated he was moving slowly with his turn signal activated and did not see Hoesch until impact.
Financial implications are significant, with Hoesch's medical expenses to date amounting to approximately $47,000 and potential future costs estimated at an additional $50,000. The total damages sought reflect not only these expenses but also compensation for pain, suffering, and potential long-term impacts on Hoesch's quality of life. This case underscores the critical importance of vigilance and adherence to traffic laws for both emergency vehicle operators and civilians, while raising questions about improved visibility measures on emergency vehicles and clearer operational protocols.
Furthermore, the billing aspect may prompt a reevaluation of policies regarding charges for emergency medical transport in situations where the service provider bears responsibility, potentially leading to broader discussions about transparency and fairness in emergency medical billing practices. As legal proceedings unfold, this case may set important precedents for handling similar incidents and spark public debate about balancing urgent emergency responses with the safety of all road users. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for emergency service providers nationwide, influencing operational procedures, training protocols, and billing practices. For additional details about the lawsuit and its potential implications, visit Mayor Law's website.
