Will COVID-19 Lead to Fewer First Responders at Accident Scenes?

COVID-19 has caused major disruptions to many Virginia residents as well as others throughout the country. Some of the people who have been hit the hardest are those deemed as essential workers, such as first responders. While police officers and EMTs are taking proper precautions, some fear that with the spread of the coronavirus, that first responders will not be available to help in the event of an emergency or accident.

While there should still be individuals who arrive when you call 911, some delays may occur when departments are not at full capacity. For instance, multiple officers in Virginia Beach were diagnosed with the coronavirus and are taking the time to self-quarantine. As such, response times may be longer in this area. Here is some information that individuals should be aware of when it comes to first responders and the COVID-19 pandemic.

 How First Responders are Avoiding Contamination

When an accident occurs, 9-1-1 operators are asking questions regarding the caller’s symptoms to protect the men and women who are risking their lives each day. Based on this information, a caller may be asked to isolate themself or to wear a face mask if they have access to one.

Further, this information obtained by 9-1-1 operators helps first responders pay more attention to which equipment needs to be cleaned after the call. Other preventative measures that are being taken by local law enforcement include disinfecting the tablets used for patient information, wearing face masks when responding to a call and using a UV-light device to clean the inside of vehicles to protect first responders against exposure to the virus.

Why Might There Be Fewer First Responders?

Although the spread of the coronavirus causes first responders to take at least 14-days off from work, Virginia is providing hotel housing for people who are risking their lives to respond to emergencies. The state hopes that this measure will protect first-responders from affecting their families with COVID-19.

After a motor vehicle accident occurs, it is crucial to call 9-1-1 because first responders

can help establish liability as well as treat any injured individuals. Despite police departments not operating at full capacity, this should not impact you or your injury claim. The worst that the decrease in the number of first responders can do is affect response times. Moreover, the police report is a critical factor that a car accident attorney will need when representing you in court and proving the negligence actions of the defendant.

With fewer first responders at the scene of an accident, you can take a steps to supplement the police report. If you can do so, you should take photos of the accident scene, including the damage to both vehicles and any visible injuries that you may have sustained.

Contact a Personal Injury Firm

 If you or somebody you love was involved in an auto accident that was a result of another individual’s negligence, it is important to contact an experienced attorney. Our team at Cooper Hurley Injury Lawyers have years of experience regarding accidents that involved busses, cars, or motorcycles. Call our firm today to speak with a lawyer who may represent you and help you receive compensation for any injuries you sustained in the crash.