Last winter, a 54-year-old man in Brooklyn lost control of his vehicle after suffering a sudden seizure while driving near Atlantic Avenue. His car swerved across lanes, crashed into two parked vehicles, and seriously injured a pedestrian on the sidewalk. The question everyone asked afterward was—who is legally responsible when a medical emergency leads to a car accident?
If you or someone you know has been in a similar situation in Brooklyn, it’s important to understand what the law says—and what your options are if you’re injured.
What Happens If a Driver Has a “Sudden Medical Emergency” During a Car Accident?
A sudden medical emergency means the driver had a sudden health condition which is beyond their control (and usually can be proven), such as a seizure, stroke, heart attack, or fainting, etc.; therefore, they lost control of their vehicle. In New York, it can constitute a defense in a court of law against liability.
But saying I had a health issue is insufficient. The law requires evidence to show:
- The emergency was truly unforeseen
- The driver had no prior knowledge or history
- The emergency was the sole reason behind the accident.
- This is where a lawyer will make all the difference.
How Liability Works in Brooklyn Car Accidents
In general, when someone causes a car accident, they (or their insurance company) are responsible for the damages. But if the driver claims a medical emergency, the case becomes more complicated.
3 Key Scenarios:
- Recognized Medical Condition
If a driver had a medical history of fainting, seizures, or heart problems but chose to drive anyway, they may still be liable.
- First-Time, Unknown Emergency
If a driver has no idea something went wrong and suddenly blacks out, the courts may excuse them under the “emergency doctrine.”
- Partial Liability
There are instances in which a medical condition exacerbates a driver’s negligent behavior, but the driver may have also made a poor decision (for example, speeding). This fault may be attributed to a combination of factors, including the driver and the pre-existing medical condition.
All of these reasons are why you should contact a Brooklyn car accident lawyer as soon as you can – details really matter.
Why Legal Representation Matters
If you’ve been injured, do not assume you will be compensated easily. In cases involving medical emergencies, insurance companies often deny claims, delay claims, or deny payment, claiming that “the driver wasn’t at fault” or “the injuries are not serious.”
If you’re working with the best personal injury lawyer in Brooklyn, this means:
- Proper investigation (i.e., medical records, driving records, videos of the incident).
- Challenging weak “emergency” defenses.
- Proving the full effect of injuries and losses.
Common Injuries in Medical Emergency Accidents
Even though the cause was health-related, the outcome can still be devastating for victims. Common injuries include:
- Traumatic brain injury
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord damage
- Internal bleeding
- Psychological trauma (especially for pedestrians)
These injuries can lead to long-term costs. A trusted Brooklyn personal injury law firm can guide you through the entire process of filing a claim and getting fair compensation.
What Should You Do After an Accident Like This?
If you’ve been hit by a driver who claims a medical emergency, here’s what you should do:
- Call the police immediately and make sure everything is documented.
- Seek medical attention even if your injuries seem small.
- Get contact information from witnesses and any other drivers.
- Do not accept any early settlement offers from insurance companies.
- Contact a Brooklyn car accident lawyer to protect your rights.
A Note About Yassi Law P.C.
At Yassi Law, P.C., we recognize how upsetting and frustrating these cases can readily become, particularly when the at-fault driver in question claims that he/she was not at fault due to a medical condition (“medical emergency”). Our experienced lawyers will walk you through every step of the entire process. We take pride in knowing that we are one of the leading personal injury law firms in Brooklyn, and we fight for our clients and the justice you deserve.
FAQ’s
1. Can someone use a medical emergency as a legal excuse in a car accident?
Yes, but only if the emergency was sudden, unavoidable, and the driver had no prior warning. The court looks closely at medical records and the driver’s past health issues.
2. What if the driver had a history of health issues?
They may still be held responsible. If they knew they were unfit to drive but did it anyway, that can make them legally liable.
3. Will my insurance cover my injuries if I’m a victim?
Yes—but only to a point. In New York, no-fault insurance pays for basic medical treatment after an accident, no matter who’s at fault. But if your injuries are severe enough, you might be able to step outside the no-fault system and file a separate claim against the other driver for full compensation.
4. How long do I have to file a claim in Brooklyn?
You typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim in New York. It’s always better to take legal action as early as possible.
5. Why should I choose Yassi Law P.C. for my accident case?
Yassi Law P.C. provides personalized legal support, local expertise in Brooklyn courts, and a proven track record in personal injury claims. If you’re unsure about your rights or next steps, our team is here to help guide you with confidence and care.
Final Thoughts
Car accidents caused by medical emergencies can be complicated, but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. With the right legal help, you can still get the compensation you need for your recovery.
If you’ve been injured in Brooklyn and the driver claims they had a medical issue, don’t wait. For experienced legal guidance, consult a Brooklyn car accident lawyer at Yassi Law P.C. and get the support you deserve.