🚴♂️ The Shocking Incident
In October 2022, 71-year-old William Hoesch was riding his bike through Rainier, Oregon. As he pedaled along a street lined with homes and shops, an ambulance made a sharp right turn. It hit him and crushed his bike.
The ambulance was returning to its station after a trip. The crash happened right in front of the Columbia River Fire & Rescue facility.
🧾 The Bill That Sparked Outrage
After the crash, paramedics loaded Hoesch into the same ambulance and took him to the hospital.
Later, he received a bill for $1,862 just for the ride.
His attorney, Travis Mayor, says this was part of over $47,000 in current medical costs. Hoesch also expects at least $50,000 in future expenses.
⚖️ Details of the Lawsuit
Hoesch has now filed a $997,000 lawsuit. It includes:
- $900,000 for pain and suffering
- $97,000 for medical bills past and future
The lawsuit also claims his uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage should cover damages that Columbia River Fire & Rescue cannot.
🧍♂️ Long-Term Injuries
Hoesch says he now suffers from:
- Less grip strength
- Limited range of motion
- Chronic pain and fatigue
The crash left him with a fractured nose, and his bicycle was completely destroyed.
🚨 Other Ambulance Crashes in Oregon
This case isn’t the only one involving an ambulance crash.
Last month, the estate of Kelsey Seibel, 25, filed a $6 million lawsuit. An ambulance allegedly made a left turn in front of her on U.S. 101, killing her in January 2024.
Just days ago, an ambulance on Interstate 84 struck a parked car. The crash killed 55-year-old Geraldean Martin, who was standing beside the vehicle.
🗣️ Silence from Officials
So far, Columbia River Fire & Rescue has not commented on the lawsuit.
Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Co. also did not respond to media questions.
💬 Final Thoughts
Getting hit by an ambulance is bad enough. Getting a bill for the ride adds insult to injury.
This case highlights how unexpected costs and legal gaps can affect even those who did nothing wrong. As this lawsuit unfolds, it may lead to changes in how emergency providers handle accidents like this one.
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