An Oregon cyclist’s routine ride takes a shocking turn when an ambulance becomes both his assailant and his rescuer, leaving him with injuries, a hefty bill, and a million-dollar lawsuit.
At a Glance
- William Hoesch, 71, was struck by an ambulance while cycling in Rainier, Oregon.
- The ambulance that hit him transported him to the hospital and billed him $1,862.
- Hoesch has filed a $997,000 lawsuit against Columbia River Fire & Rescue.
- The cyclist has incurred nearly $47,000 in medical bills with an additional $50,000 expected.
- Columbia River Fire & Rescue has not commented on the lawsuit.
Collision Details
In October 2022, 71-year-old William Hoesch’s bicycle ride in Rainier, Oregon, took an unexpected and dangerous turn. An ambulance operated by Columbia River Fire & Rescue made a right turn, colliding with Hoesch and crushing his bicycle. The impact, described in police reports as a “thump,” left Hoesch with multiple injuries, including a fractured nose and body scrapes.
Insult to injury! Ambulance hits Oregon cyclist then charges him $2K for a ride to the hospital: lawsuit https://t.co/Eydkdc34gJ pic.twitter.com/XFZMyoXU5s
— New York Post (@nypost) November 6, 2024
The Controversial Bill
Adding insult to injury, Hoesch received a bill for $1,862 for the ambulance ride to the hospital – the very same ambulance that had struck him. His attorney, Travis Mayor, confirmed this shocking detail.
This billing practice has raised serious questions about the ethics and fairness of emergency services billing, particularly in cases where the service provider is at fault.
Mounting Medical Costs
The financial impact of the accident extends far beyond the ambulance bill. Hoesch has already incurred nearly $47,000 in medical bills and anticipates an additional $50,000 for future treatment. These mounting costs stem from the serious injuries sustained in the collision.
The long-term effects of the accident on Hoesch’s health are significant. He reports “decreased range of motion” and “reduced grip” strength, impacting his daily life and potentially his future ability to engage in cycling and other activities.
Legal Action and Silence
In response to the incident and its aftermath, Hoesch filed a $997,000 lawsuit against Columbia River Fire & Rescue on October 24, 2024. The lawsuit seeks compensation for “pain and suffering” and long-term impacts of the accident. Notably, Columbia River Fire & Rescue has remained silent on the matter, choosing not to comment on the pending litigation.
This case highlights broader concerns within the community about accountability and transparency in emergency medical situations. It also raises questions about the potential need for policy changes to protect citizens from unfair billing practices.
