(GoRealNewsNow.com) – In a shocking case that exemplifies the absurdity of some emergency service billing practices, an Oregon cyclist was not only struck by an ambulance but then billed nearly $2,000 for the ride to the hospital.
Rainier, Oregon, 71-year-old cyclist William Hoesch found himself the victim of a collision with an ambulance operated by Columbia River Fire & Rescue in October 2022.
The ambulance, reportedly traveling between 2 and 10 mph, turned right into Hoesch, crushing his bicycle and leaving him with multiple injuries, including a fractured nose and body scrapes.
Hoesch was then transported to the hospital by the very same ambulance that had just hit him, but the real shock came later when he received a bill for $1,862 for the ambulance ride.
The victim was more than outraged by the unjust situation. He filed a lawsuit against Columbia River Fire & Rescue, seeking nearly $1 million in damages to cover his medical costs and compensate for his pain and suffering.
The lawsuit highlights the significant issues surrounding emergency service billing practices, especially in cases where the entity responsible for the accident is also involved in the subsequent transport.
Hoesch’s financial burden is staggering. He has already sustained nearly $47,000 in medical bills and expects an additional $50,000 for future treatment.
This is not the only case related to this incident. Similar events in Oregon include a January 2024 case where a cyclist was killed by an ambulance, leading to a $6 million lawsuit, and a July 2024 case where an ambulance struck and killed a woman.
Meanwhile, Columbia River Fire & Rescue has not disclosed any information about what happened.
Their refusal to comment on the ongoing legal proceedings only fuels suspicions of guilt and attempts to avoid accountability.
This lack of transparency is unacceptable for a public service organization that should be dedicated to protecting and serving the community.
In addition, it is important to note that accountability from our emergency services and push for reforms in healthcare billing practices need to be done, as no American should face financial ruin due to an accident caused by the very services meant to help them.
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