ONTARIO - A 23-year-old paramedic was killed in an ambulance crash early Sunday morning on Interstate 10, the Press-Enterprise reported. According to news accounts, 23-year-old Doug Odgers was a front passenger and paramedic in an ambulance travelling westbound on I-10 when, for unknown reasons, the vehicle struck a freeway sign pole east of the Fourth Street onramp. Paramedics responded and transported Odgers to San Antonio Community Hospital where he died of his injuries just after 9 a.m. No patients were being transported at the time of the accident, which occurred at 6:10 a.m. on May 8, 2011.
Cause of the May 8th Ontario Ambulance Accident
The Press-Enterprise reported that a preliminary investigation by the CHP did not reveal the cause of the San Bernardino County accident. The ambulance, a 2007 Ford, was driven by 25-year-old Grelli Ugarte of Carmarillo. Carmarillo suffered moderate injuries and was taken to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center. Hopefully, the CHP investigation will reveal exactly what happened and why.
Ambulance Accident Wrongful Death Liability
Based on the limited information in news accounts, it appears that, as a passenger, Odgers could have done little to prevent this accident from occurring. If it is determined that the driver of the ambulance caused the crash, or if the accident was caused by a defect in the ambulance or due to deferred maintenance, the owner / operator of the medical transport company may be liable for the wrongful death of the paramedic. After a fatal accident such as this one, the family members of the victim would be well-advised to speak with an experienced and knowledgeable California wrongful death lawyer who is familiar with the unique legal issues of medical transport accidents. An attorney can advise the family of their best course of action to protect their legal rights following this accident, and help them fully hold accountable whoever is responsible for their loved one's death.
Sources: Press-Enterprise
Leave a comment