Unexpected medical emergencies can happen at any time and may occur while someone is driving. When that happens, it can lead to serious accidents that raise difficult legal and insurance questions. Determining responsibility is not always straightforward when a medical condition plays a role.
If a known medical issue leads to a loss of control, liability may be initially assigned to the driver. Courts and insurance companies will investigate whether the individual was aware of the condition and if they were advised to avoid driving.
If a driver had no prior warning of a health problem—for instance, a first-time seizure or sudden cardiac arrest—their liability may be challenged. This situation is referred to as a “sudden emergency,” which can relieve a driver of fault under certain conditions. However, this defense typically applies only when there is no history of the condition and no reasonable way to predict the event.
What if the Medical Emergency Was Previously Diagnosed?
A known medical condition often changes how liability is assessed. For example, a person with epilepsy who failed to take medication or disregarded medical advice not to drive may be found responsible for the accident. Courts may view that conduct as negligent, as the driver was allegedly aware of the risks.
Similarly, individuals with diabetes, heart disease, or other chronic illnesses may be held accountable if their condition contributed to the crash and they ignored medical instructions. In these situations, the law tends to focus on foreseeability and personal responsibility.
Are Medical Records Important in These Cases?
Yes. Records can show whether a driver had a history of symptoms, received relevant diagnoses, or was taking appropriate precautions. These documents may be reviewed by insurers, attorneys, and courts when evaluating claims.
Without medical evidence, it may be difficult to determine whether the episode was sudden or part of an ongoing condition. The more information available about the driver’s health, the clearer the legal picture becomes.
Can a Medical Episode Affect Insurance Claims?
Health-related car accidents can complicate the claims process. Insurance companies will investigate whether the driver had a preexisting condition and whether that condition contributed to the accident. If the company determines that the driver knowingly took a risk by operating a vehicle, they may deny coverage or dispute responsibility.
In contrast, if the incident was truly unpredictable, a policy may still provide coverage. Insurance decisions depend on state law, medical documentation, and the specific language in the policy. Legal advice can prove invaluable in cases involving ambiguous medical circumstances.
Can a Passenger or Pedestrian File a Lawsuit After a Medical Emergency Crash?
Yes, if a passenger or pedestrian is injured in a crash caused by a driver’s medical condition, they may file a lawsuit. The success of the claim depends on whether the driver knew or should have known about the risk. Courts examine medical records, driver history, and testimony from healthcare providers to determine fault.
If the court finds that the driver failed to act responsibly, damages may be awarded for medical bills, lost wages, and other related losses. However, if the medical event was completely unexpected and there was no prior indication of risk, liability may not be assigned.
Cherry Hill Car Accident Lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York Skillfully Represent Clients When Medical Conditions Cause Their Accidents
Determining fault after a crash involving a medical condition requires careful review of medical and legal records. Our experienced Cherry Hill car accident lawyers at Pressman, Doyle, Bloom, & York can review your case and explain your legal options. For a free consultation, call 856-843-8990 or complete our online form. Located in Milmont Park, Pennsylvania and Cherry Hill, New Jersey, we serve clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.