An Oregon cyclist is suing an ambulance company for nearly $1 million after being hit and then billed for the ride to the hospital.
At a Glance
- William Hoesch was struck by an ambulance in Rainier, Oregon, in October 2022.
- The cyclist suffered injuries including a fractured nose and permanent mobility issues.
- Columbia River Fire & Rescue billed Hoesch $1,862 for the ambulance ride.
- Hoesch is suing for $997,000 to cover medical expenses and pain and suffering.
- The ambulance company has declined to comment on the lawsuit.
Cyclist Hit by Ambulance, Then Billed for Ride
An Oregon cyclist found himself not only injured by an ambulance but also charged for its services. William Hoesch was cycling in the town of Rainier, near the Columbia River, in October 2022 when an ambulance from Columbia River Fire & Rescue struck him while making a right turn. The incident has sparked a lawsuit and raised questions about accountability in emergency services.
According to reports, the ambulance was traveling between 2 mph and 10 mph when it collided with Hoesch. The impact left the cyclist with a fractured nose, scratches, and other injuries. More concerning are the lasting effects of the accident, as Hoesch now reportedly suffers from permanent injuries.
Ambulance hits Oregon cyclist then charges him nearly $2,000 for a ride to the hospital. pic.twitter.com/mys43T8OyC
— Daily Loud (@DailyLoud) November 7, 2024
The Bill That Added Insult to Injury
Columbia River Fire & Rescue reportedly sent Hoesch a bill for $1,862 for the ambulance ride to the hospital—the very same ambulance that had struck him. This action has become a central point in the legal battle that has ensued.
The lawsuit, filed on October 24 in Columbia County, seeks nearly $1 million in damages. Hoesch is pursuing compensation for pain, suffering, and substantial medical expenses. Court documents reveal that he has already incurred $47,000 in medical bills and anticipates an additional $50,000 in future medical costs related to the accident.
Legal Action and Silence from the Ambulance Company
As the legal proceedings unfold, Columbia River Fire & Rescue has maintained a tight-lipped stance, declining to comment on the lawsuit. This silence has only fueled public interest in the case, which has garnered attention for its unusual circumstances.
The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the responsibilities of emergency service providers and the potential conflicts that can arise when those tasked with helping others become the source of harm. It also raises questions about billing practices in emergency situations, particularly when the service provider is at fault.
As this case moves through the legal system, could the outcome of Hoesch’s lawsuit have far-reaching implications for both cyclists and emergency responders alike?
Sources
- Ambulance hits Oregon cyclist then charges him nearly $2K for a ride to the hospital: lawsuit
- Ambulance Provider Charged Cyclist $1,800 to Take Him to Hospital After Running Him Over with Ambulance: Lawsuit
- Cyclist Billed $1800 for Using the Ambulance That Ran Him Over
