Chicago Non-Emergency Medical Transport Accident Lawyers

Compensation for Non-Emergency Medical Transport Accidents in Chicago

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our compassionate team of non-emergency medical transport accident lawyers helps victims hold transportation companies accountable when accidents occur.

When patients rely on non-emergency medical transportation to get to medical appointments, they trust trained professionals to deliver safe, reliable service. 

These transportation services are intended to support vulnerable patients who may be elderly, disabled, or managing complex medical conditions. But when non-emergency medical providers fail to meet expected safety procedures, passengers can suffer severe injuries, worsened health conditions, or even face life-threatening consequences.

If you or a loved one was injured during medical transportation, our compassionate team is here to fight for your rights, explore your legal options, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

Understanding Non-Emergency Medical Transport and Your Legal Rights in Chicago

Non-emergency medical transportation (NEMT) refers to specialized transportation services that assist patients who cannot drive to doctors’ appointments, clinics, or hospitals but do not require emergency medical intervention. These services often involve transporting patients in wheelchairs, stretchers, or other non-ambulatory conditions.

In a city as busy as Chicago, the importance of safely transporting patients cannot be overstated. With its dense traffic, complex intersections, and frequent congestion, potential safety hazards can be seen around every corner. 

While local transportation providers play a crucial role in preserving patients’ well-being, non-emergency medical transportation accidents are not uncommon.

Transportation companies that provide medical transportation services are often considered common carriers, meaning they owe passengers a heightened duty of reasonable care. This responsibility includes ensuring their vehicles have the necessary safety features, drivers have adequate training, and proper protocols are followed during every aspect of patient care.

When NEMT companies or staff fail to follow established safety protocols and injuries occur, their company’s negligence may be grounds for a legal claim. Our attorneys are experienced in evaluating the circumstances surrounding these incidents and holding negligent parties accountable, ensuring patients are fairly compensated.

Common Causes of Medical Transport Accidents

Medical transport accidents can occur in various ways. In many cases, non-emergency medical transportation accidents are entirely preventable and stem from a failure to uphold basic safety standards. 

One of the leading causes of medical transport mishaps is driver negligence, such as speeding, failure to obey traffic laws, or distracted driving while transporting patients. Collisions with other vehicles are all too common in city environments.         

Beyond crashes, injuries may also occur due to inadequate training of drivers or attendants. This can lead to incidents such as dropping passengers, improper use of restraints, or failing to lock down a wheelchair during transit. These errors can result in devastating outcomes for patients, including head injuries, broken bones, or internal trauma.

Another source of injury involves medical transport equipment. Vehicles that lack necessary features or are improperly maintained pose serious risks. Faulty ramps, defective lifts, or unsecured stretchers may lead to accidents even before the vehicle leaves the curb.

In some situations, the medical transport company may also be liable for failing to supervise staff, enforce appropriate procedures, or provide proper training to their personnel. This breakdown in oversight often reflects systemic issues in the company’s operations and can result in repeated harm to patients relying on medical transport.       

Types of Injuries in Non-Emergency Medical Transport Accidents

Victims of NEMT incidents often suffer severe injuries that may require long-term medical care and impact their ability to live independently. These injuries can include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) from sudden stops or vehicle collisions;
• Broken bones, including hip fractures and pelvic injuries in elderly patients;
• Internal organ damage from being jolted, dropped, or thrown during transit;
• Spinal cord injuries that may result in permanent disability or paralysis;
• Lacerations, bruises, and abrasions caused by falls or faulty medical transport equipment.
  

These outcomes are especially dangerous for patients with pre-existing medical conditions or limited mobility, for whom even a minor incident can lead to severe complications.

Who Can Be Held Liable for NEMT Injuries?

Multiple parties may share responsibility for NEMT injuries, depending on the details of the incident. Common defendants in these cases include:

• The medical transport company, particularly when poor hiring practices, inadequate training, or a lack of features contributed to the injury.
• The vehicle driver or attendant, when negligence or misconduct occurred during patient care or non-emergency medical transportation.
• Equipment manufacturers, especially in cases involving malfunctioning lifts, ramps, or restraints.
• Nursing homes or assisted living facilities that failed to coordinate proper transportation services or ensure the well-being of patients.  
  

In every case, our attorneys examine the circumstances surrounding the event and work with medical and transportation experts to determine fault.

Steps to Take After a Non-Emergency Medical Transport Accident

Following an NEMT incident, your actions can directly influence your ability to pursue compensation. 

First, seek immediate medical care, even if injuries appear minor. This step protects your health and provides essential documentation for your case. Next, report the incident to the medical transport company and request copies of all related documentation.

If possible, gather evidence. Photos of the vehicle, safety features, injuries, and the location can all strengthen your claim. Ask witnesses for their contact information, and request access to transport logs or driver records.

Maintain detailed records of all medical treatments, including emergency visits, physical therapy services, and follow-up care. Track your medical appointments, expenses, time away from work, and any emotional or physical distress you’ve endured.       

Finally, consult a qualified lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced attorney can help preserve evidence, file claims promptly, and communicate with insurers and opposing counsel on your behalf.

Legal Rights and Pursuing Compensation After a NEMT Accident

Victims of medical transport accidents may be entitled to financial recovery if the company’s negligence or driver error played a role. Our firm works to protect your rights and ensure you receive full compensation for:

• Current and future medical expenses.
• Rehabilitation and ongoing medical treatments or services.
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
• Additional expenses related to caregiving services, home modifications, or mobility aids.
  

At Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers, our legal team investigates every detail. We gather transport records, interview witnesses, consult with quality engineers, and analyze your medical history to build a strong case. Our attorneys understand how to hold transportation providers accountable while remaining focused on your health and long-term recovery.

Why Choose Our Experienced Attorneys for Your NEMT Accident Case

Our firm has decades of experience representing clients in complex medical transportation and personal injury cases. We know what it takes to win cases involving negligence and have a proven record of holding transportation companies responsible.

We tailor our approach to your needs, offering compassionate, client-centered service while delivering aggressive representation in negotiations or court. From navigating medical bills to recovering lost income, our team supports you every step of the way.

Free Consultation With Our Accident Lawyers

If you or a loved one was injured during non-emergency medical transportation, you don’t have to face the legal process or deal with transportation companies alone. 

Our firm offers a free initial consultation to discuss your situation, answer your questions, and explore your legal options. There is no risk; just a no-obligation consultation with a team that’s here to help.    

Our expert Chicago car accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, so you don’t need to pay for any services unless we secure compensation on your behalf. Call Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers today to schedule your free meeting. Call us at (888) 424-5757 or fill out our contact form.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.